By Zakkai Notkin
Editor’s Note: The following article was edited to reflect the corrected position of Rami Levin.
After three long years since their last show, the Yeshiva College Dramatics Society (YCDS) finally returned on the night of April 4, 2022 with its presentation of Oldtimers Game, a play by Lee Blessing. The show revolves around a minor league baseball locker room on the day of an “Old Timer’s Game,” an exhibition match between former and current players, coinciding with the arrival of a new owner with big ideas.
YCDS’s Oldtimers Game was produced and performed by a group of men from the Wilf campus who had little to no experience and limited resources. I am glad, however, to report that the play far surpassed my expectations. Despite their handicaps, YCDS has put on a show that is legitimately praiseworthy, entertaining, and meaningful.
“Since the society had to basically reform from scratch, a lot of work had to go into making it happen at all, so we might as well make it good,” shared Rami Levin (YC ‘24), actor and Head of Operations of the society. President Berman, who attended opening night, summarized his feelings with one word: “awesome.” In my opinion, that truly was a fair assessment, considering the packed audience and hitchless performance.
Each actor stood on his own, giving characters that could blend together on paper unique personalities and on-stage presence. Each one has his own goals, flaws, and heartfelt moments. Thanks to the work of the indispensable director, Professor Rueven Russell, the dialogue demonstrated quick wit and intense drama. Additionally, the jaw-dropping fight scenes were choreographed by a professional stunt coordinator who lives in Washington Heights. The imaginary locker room on stage felt like a window into its own little world.
I tremendously enjoyed the play and I highly encourage anyone interested in theater to attend, if only to see the results of hard work and determination.
Open to men and women, Oldtimers Game will have showtimes on April 4, 6, 7, 10, 2022.
Photo Credit: Yael Evgi