Crossing Delancey

dramaturg notes Susan Sandler’s Crossing Delancey opened April 25, 1985, at New York City’s Jewish Repertory Theatre. The play’s title provides a significant clue about the specific street as a symbol. In New York, Delancey Street divides the East Side from the West Side. Whereas the residential East Side is full of tradition and history, the West Side is associated more with the corporate business world, modern architecture, and the idea of separating from the past and looking ahead to the future. Delancey Street also divides a traditionally Jewish neighborhood from secular Manhattan. Isabelle Grossman is an independent, working Jewish woman of the 1980s, figuratively walking down Delancey Street. The ’80s image of the ideal, modern woman was independent, working, and in a great relationship. Izzy’s Jewish heritage and faith consider marriage so important that it is unnatural for a young woman to have not been married by her age. Izzy would like to have the ideal working life and the perfect relationship leading to marriage, but this ideal picture is almost impossible to obtain for the lack of time. Izzy’s Bubbie, whom she loves dearly, also calls for Izzy to remain loyal to the Jewish traditions, but Izzy’s world is one where the traditions would be considered antiquated and unnecessary. Throughout the play, she states in effect, “This is not my style.” What exactly is Izzy’s style then? Is it possible to live in the modern world and yet bring the past with you? Watch, laugh, and be moved as Izzy tries to figure out where this balance lies as we’re Crossing Delancey . Tom Worrall, Dramaturg The dramaturg has also prepared a study and discussion guide, Play on Words , which is available to all audience members at no cost at the concession stand. Play on Words is funded by Alpha Psi Omega, the Cedarville University chapter of the National Honorary Theatre Organization. director notes Crossing Delancey is a delightful love story. It has all the elements of a great romantic comedy: a pretty girl, a suitor or two, a colorful cast of characters, and a very happy ending. So sit back, relax, prepare to laugh, and maybe even learn a little about finding love where you least expect to find it. On behalf of the cast and crew, welcome to Crossing Delancey . I hope you enjoy it as much as we have. Mischelle L. McIntosh, Director