The wise men of chelm

visual theater based on the Jewish fables

Those leaving Chelm, are destined to return to Chelm. Those remaining in Chelm - of course they are in Chelm!

Continuing Clipa's research into mythology and folk tales from the cradle of civilization, and yet in complete contradiction to the serious and tragic subjects chosen until now: here is Chelm.

A city of fools - born from an angel's mistake, and destroyed by man's folly, Chelm is a place where confusion rules and simpletons are blessed, where parables interweave creating a mindless reality, in which only through humor is sanity possible.

With a trumpet and a bell, a wash basin, a ladder and a rope one can catch the moon! Kosher Jewish tunes and images played by a troupe of actors originating from all over the world, Chelm gives naivete and optimism a chance - here are people striding fearlessly and knowingly to a sure end, leaving terms such as meaning or significance empty, light and devoid of content.

Chelm is a visual theater performance, based on the Jewish fables of the town of fools, combining movement and live music. The Wise Men of Chelm is suitable for any age.

"I was totally taken by the magic...wonderful, innovative images"
Achbar Ha'ir newspaper, Tel Aviv

"A wide range of unforgettable characters of virtuosic design... a daring, live and kicking piece of art"
Yediot Tel Aviv newspaper

"Clean, magical pictures...a once in a lifetime experience of high quality physical theater"
YNET website, Israel
"One of the most moving shows I've seen lately. Don't miss it"
Israel Today newspaper

Created, directed and designed by: Idit Herman

Creators and Participants: Dmitry Tyulpanov , Dirk Kunesch, Andreas Merk, Takanori Kawaharda, Zohar Cohen
Music: Dmitry Tyulpanov, Dirk Kunesch
Costumes: Lee Meir