To help you get the most out of “Trayf,” the upcoming production at New Jewish Theater, the Jewish Light spoke with director Aaron Sparks to break down key aspects of the story of “Trayf” and provide a helpful guide before you experience this unique, moving play.
Running from Sept. 12 to 29, “Trayf” explores themes of faith, friendship and personal growth wrapped in humor and heart.
Here’s what you need to know before you take your seat.
The story of ‘Trayf’
“Trayf” tells the story of Zalmy, a young Orthodox Jew living a double life in 1990s New York City. By day he drives a “mitzvah tank” with his best friend Shmuel performing religious outreach. At night, he secretly indulges in the secular world, roller-skating and listening to rock music. When the two meet Jonathan, a secular Jew exploring his newfound Jewish identity, Zalmy is tempted to dive deeper into the secular world. As his and Shmuel’s friendship is tested, Zalmy must decide whether to stay true to his faith or embrace the freedom of the world beyond his Orthodox community.
How does the definition of trayf fit into the show?
The title “Trayf” is a Yiddish term that refers to anything that is not kosher—food, behavior or actions that go against Jewish laws. But as Sparks explains, in the play it takes on deeper meanings.
“Trayf isn’t just about what you eat, it’s about how you live,” said Sparks. “Zalmy sneaks away to listen to secular music and Jonathan’s journey into Orthodox Judaism without guidance would be seen as ‘trayf’ in some parts of the religious community. These tensions shape the story.”
Balancing faith and curiosity
The main characters of Zalmy and Shmuel are balancing their deep commitment to their faith while Zalmy finds himself increasingly captivated by the possibilities outside their community.
“What’s fascinating about ‘Trayf’ is watching these characters navigate the push and pull of their beliefs versus their desires,” Sparks explained. “Shmuel finds beauty in their religious practices while Zalmy is drawn to the freedom of the secular world yet neither is fully ready to let go of the other side.”
The role of the ‘mitzvah tank’
Central to the plot is the “mitzvah tank,” a mobile outreach vehicle used by Chabad-Lubavitch Hasidim.
“The mitzvah tank isn’t just a prop—it’s the embodiment of their mission to light up other Jewish souls as their Rebbe instructed,” said Sparks. “But in the process of trying to light up others, these characters end up kindling something within themselves that leads to a personal reckoning.”
Friendship as the heartbeat of the story
While “Trayf” explores deep philosophical and religious themes, at its core it is a story about friendship.
“Zalmy and Shmuel’s relationship is the emotional anchor,” Sparks said. “Their bond is filled with love and laughter even as their lives start moving in different directions. That’s something we all relate to—growing up doesn’t always mean growing apart even when your paths diverge.”
Secular encounters and personal growth
The play also features characters like Jonathan who is drawn into the Orthodox world and his secular girlfriend Leah who struggles to understand this new part of his life. These secular encounters act as catalysts for Zalmy and Shmuel’s growth.
“For Zalmy, seeing Jonathan embrace Orthodox Judaism makes him question his own faith and wonder if he still fits in that world,” Sparks said. “It’s the exposure to these different lifestyles that pushes each character to figure out who they are.”
‘Trayf’ is a show for everyone
‘Trayf’s’ themes of identity, belonging and self-discovery extend beyond its Orthodox Jewish characters, making the play relatable to a wide audience.
“Even though ‘Trayf’ is about Orthodox Jewish characters, the themes of identity, belonging and the search for meaning are things everyone can connect with,” said Sparks.
‘Trayf’
When: Sept.12-29
Where: J’s Wool Studio Theatre, 2 Millstone Campus Dr.
More: To purchase tickets to “Trayf” or other NJT shows, visit them online.
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