Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

Orthodox Jews in Israel Demonstrate Against Friday Night Performances

May 15, 1961
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

About 1,000 Orthodox Jews staged a demonstration at Petach Tikvah Friday night, trying to prevent a performance in one of the town’s theatres which they considered a violation of the sacredness of the Sabbath. A week earlier, a Jazz concert was staged at the same theatre on Friday night. This time, Orthodox Jews had asked for a police permit to demonstrate against another Friday night performance, but permission was denied.

Religious residents of Petach Tikvah massed around Yeshiva House and started marching toward the theatre, evidently intending to block entrances to the house. When reinforced police units tried to break up the demonstrations, some of the Orthodox protesters pelted the policemen with stones. However, the police kept the entrances to the theatre open. Orthodox leaders at Petach Tikvah have announced they will stage another demonstration against Friday evening performances next Sabbath eve.

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement