The Rosenberg/Strange Fruit Project

Show Info

Written and performed by John Jiler
Live Music by Sweet Lee Odom
Directed by Margarett Perry

Most know of the Julius and Ethel Rosenberg case, but few know the story of their youngest child, Robert, orphaned at six following his parents’ execution for espionage. The boy was adopted by Abel Meeropol who wrote the song “Strange Fruit” seared into America’s consciousness by Billie Holiday. 
 
Written and performed by award-winning actor/playwright John Jiler, The Rosenberg/Strange Fruit Project plumbs America’s character and history, both sweet and sour, through the telling of that remarkable story. Accompanied by clarinetist Sweet Lee Odom, Jiler weaves together strands of American history, political movements, Klezmer, and jazz, along with themes of personal and social responsibility.
 
Irreverent and reflective, at turns poignant and wickedly funny, Jiler’s script considers an American melting pot that’s more like a simmering cauldron threatening to boil over.

CONTENT TRANSPARENCY

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Contains strong language, violence, and discussion of execution.

John

Jiler

Sweet Lee

Odom