On Wednesday, March 26, 10th graders saw The Return of Benjamin Lay, a one-man show about a radical Quaker abolitionist from the 18th century who gradually became disenchanted with the Quaker elite because they refused to confront slaveholders within their communities in any meaningful way, shape, or form. 

The actor, Mark Povinelli, is a friend of Rabbi Dahlia’s and helped the school acquire tickets. Apart from a few faculty chaperones, the sophomores were alone in the theater. 

Povinelli improvised and interacted with his audience throughout the performance, causing wholesome interactions that helped to keep the otherwise somber mood of the production somewhat lighthearted.

 “I enjoyed how he interacted with the audience,” said sophomore Bella Kalimian. “It made the play much more engaging and interesting.” 

Lily Weiss, also a sophomore, had a similar attitude towards the performance. “I loved the way he interacted with the crowd,” she said. “I had never seen a one-man show and was amused by the use of props and set.” 

Despite the inherent challenges of performing a one-man show, Povinelli was able to stay true to Benjamin Lay’s unpredictable nature and fiery oratory ability, while simultaneously providing the Class of 2027 with a unique experience they are sure to remember.