| Here on the South Bank of the River Thames in central London, pro-Palestinian protest has been declaring an Israeli theatre group 'Not Welcome.' However, on the other side of the road, there is a pro-Israeli counter-protest. Central London, Israeli and Palestinian flags, divided by police. The focus of those scenes was the Israeli theatre group Habima. They're playing this week at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, as part of a 'cultural olympiad' ahead of the Olympic Games later this summer. Over the course of a few weeks, dozens of Shakespeare plays are being performed in 38 different languages, and Habima is performing The Merchant of Venice in Hebrew. Many think it's a clever idea, but protesters say that Habima should never have been invited. The protest has been a long time coming. In March, famous names from the world of film and theatre signed up to a public letter condemning Habima's invitation. It was a rare and high-profile example of politics and art mixing, but campaigners say there is good reason to target Israeli culture. Others counter that Habima's contribution ought to be celebrated and enjoyed away from the politics of the Middle East. This protest, they say, is just Israel-bashing, and has no place amid a culture festival. The festival organisers had been worried about today's event. Security had been stepped up, interview requests had been denied, and filming requests had been refused. As the light began to fade, the performance commenced. But midway ... |
