Ari’el Stachel’s Play “Other” Confronts Identity and Anxiety on Stage

Tony winner Ari’el Stachel is sharing his deeply personal story in a new one-man show. The play, titled Other, is running at Greenwich House Theatre in New York. It details his lifelong struggle with identity and a debilitating anxiety disorder.

Stachel, who is of Yemenite Israeli descent, recounts experiences of being “othered” from a young age. He reveals the extreme lengths he went to in order to conceal his heritage.

A Personal Journey of Hiding and Reconciliation

Stachel’s play is an autobiographical revelation. He portrays 48 different characters throughout the performance. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the narrative covers his childhood in Berkeley, California, where he faced taunts at his Jewish day school.

He began “passing” as different ethnicities to fit in, first as white and later as Black. This was done to hide his father, Aaron Yeshayahu, from his public life. The internal conflict and stress from this double life drove him to a breaking point.

Creating Connection and a Path to Broadway

Since its opening, Other has been attracting diverse and engaged audiences. Lead producer LaChanze confirms that viewers often stay after the show to share their own experiences. This creates a powerful sense of community and belonging among attendees.

LaChanze is now gearing the production for a Broadway transfer. She emphasizes the importance of creating commercial theater that is inviting for new, younger audiences. Their partnership highlights a unique cross-cultural collaboration in theatrical production.

The play Other represents a courageous act of public vulnerability. Ari’el Stachel’s story is connecting with audiences on a profound level. His work is helping to destigmatize conversations around mental health and cultural identity.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is Ari’el Stachel’s play “Other” about?

“Other” is a one-man show where Stachel tells his own life story. It focuses on his experiences with racial identity and living with an anxiety disorder. He portrays 48 different characters throughout the performance.

Where can I see the play “Other”?

The play is currently running at Greenwich House Theatre in New York. Its scheduled performances continue through December 6th. There are active plans to transfer the production to Broadway.

What is Ari’el Stachel best known for?

Stachel won a Tony Award for his role in the Broadway musical “The Band’s Visit.” He also had a recurring role on “Law & Order: SVU” as Sgt. Khaldun. His other credits include “The Night Agent” and “Don’t Worry Darling.”

How has the public responded to “Other”?

Audiences have responded with deep connection and engagement. Many stay after the show to share their own “othered” experiences. The play is noted for attracting a younger, diverse crowd to the theater.

Who is producing the play?

The play is produced by Tony Award-winning actress and producer LaChanze. She has recently produced several Tony-winning shows like “Kimberly Akimbo.” Her involvement signals strong commercial confidence in the production.