“My Name is Rachel Corrie” opened in Vancouver’s Havana Theatre on January 25.  The play, using the writings of the young American woman who served as a peace activist in Palestine and who was killed by an Israeli bulldozer while trying to protect the house of a Palestinian doctor, was canceled in New York and Toronto because of pressures from members of the Jewish community.  The play received good reviews in London.

In spite of pressure, the Havana Theatre is refusing to back down on showing the play.  Marcus Youssef, a co-director of the one-woman show, says that, if there are protesters, “we will invite them in to see the show.”  Neworld, the production company putting on the performance at the theatre, has arranged a post-performance discussion with a local rabbi and members of his congregation.  The production is being used as an impetus to discussion and education about the issues involved in Rachel’s actions and commitment.  Her parents will be in Vancouver in February to give their views.