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EST 1917
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Polish Government Prohibits Opera in Yiddish

The Polish Government has prohibited the performance of ”David and Bathsheba” an original opera in Yiddish. The order came at the last moment

after all preparations had been completed for the opening performance and after tickets for several performances had been sold.

The official reason of the government in prohibiting these performances was that the theatre in which the opera was scheduled to open was not adapted for a large audience. The truth of the matter, however, is that the closing order was the result of intrigues on the part of the enemies of a Yiddish opera. They pointed out to the government that an opera in Yiddish in Warsaw would be creating competition with the Polish opera, which is patronized mostly by Jews, and which the Polish government is maintaining at a deficit.

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