Daughter of the Wicked, Solo Play About Yemenite Children Affair, to Perform Off-Broadway

Shanit Keter Schwartz will perform her original solo play, Daughter of the Wicked, at New York City Center, Stage II. Previews begin April 15 ahead of an official opening night on April 20. Performances are scheduled through May 14.

The play is about Schwartz's return to her homeland, Israel, and her search for her missing sister, a victim of the Yemenite Children Affair.

From 1948 to 1954, thousands of Jewish migrants from Yemen and other parts of the Middle East arrived in the newly formed state of Israel and often resided in refugee camps until more permanent housing could be secured. Due to unhygienic conditions, the Israeli authorities removed thousands of babies and toddlers from the camps, moving them to concrete buildings and medical facilities. Many were never reunited with their families — including Schwartz's sister.

"This is an immigrant story that many audience members will relate to — the essence of that spirit that brought us all to this country and help to define it in the most beautiful way," said Schwartz. "I want to connect with those who have experienced the pain of loss, and with those who may have been discriminated for the color of their skin."

The play will feature an original soundscape of Yemenite tin drums and flutes by Israeli composer Lilo Fedida. It also features original cello compositions by Grammy and Emmy winner James Newton Howard. Ella Jane New directs.