Join YIVO for the world premiere production of The Great Dictionary of the Yiddish Language, a new chamber opera with music by Pulitzer Prize finalist Alex Weiser and libretto by Ben Kaplan. The opera tells the remarkable true story of Yiddish linguist Yudel Mark’s unfinished effort to create a comprehensive Yiddish dictionary. 

With a runtime of 50 minutes, the opera is performed by an ensemble of five singers, combining characters based on historical figures — Yudel Mark and Max Weinreich, with those inspired by Jewish mystical themes; the character of Yudel Mark is haunted by three ‘alefs,’ three divine emanations of the Yiddish language—played by three mezzo-sopranos—who compel him to breathe new life into Yiddish as he works to complete the dictionary. 

The Great Dictionary invites audiences to contemplate the surprisingly grand ambition of Yiddish culture after its decimation during the Holocaust and to consider the power of language to transform and shape us.

Directed by Rebecca Miller Kratzer, the production will feature tenor Jason Weisinger, baritone Gideon Dabi, and mezzo-sopranos Kristin Gornstein, Kate Maroney, and Kelly Guerra. An ensemble featuring clarinet, string quintet, and piano will be led by conductor David Bloom. The production will feature scenic design by Michael Bennett Lewis, projection design by Camilla Tassi, lighting design by Stacey Boggs, and costume design by Matsy Stinson.