Media release

Winnipeg Jewish Theatre

MARCH 1, 1995

***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***

SHELDON OBERMAN

Wins Award for

"The Always Prayer Shawl"

...Premiering Soon with Winnipeg Jewish Theatre

WINNIPEG - The U.S. Association of Jewish Libraries (AJL) has awarded its 1994 Sidney Taylor Award for Outstanding Children's Picture Book of Judaica to Winnipeg writer, playwright, filmmaker and teacher Sheldon Oberman for The Always Prayer Shawl.

The Winnipeg Jewish Theatre will premiere the stage adaptation of this award-winning story in an exclusive engagement March 9, 11, 12 & 15 at the Warehouse Theatre.

"Canadians pay so much attention to the American experience," said Oberman, renowned for his stories of Winnipeg's North End. "I think it's great that the Winnipeg experience is attracting attention south of the border."

The poignant story of Adam, his grandfather, and the prayer shawl that transcends generations and celebrates the strength of tradition, won the 1994 National Jewish Book Award in the children's picture book category. Oberman's book, published by Boyds Mills Press, continues to garner international recognition including American Bookseller's "Pick of the List Award", A Child Magazine's "Best Book of the Year", National Council of Social Studies "Notable Book in the Field of Social Studies", and Canada's "Choice List" awarded by the Canadian Children's Book Centre.

"It seems as time goes on this book gains an even wider audience," said BMP spokesperson Larry Rosler. "The story resonates universally with its exploration of tradition, heritage and the immigrant experience."

Winnipeg Jewish Theatre is back April 27 - May 7 with the charming comedy BEAU JEST! Tickets are available at all TicketMaster outlets or charge by phone 780-3333.

For more information, interviews, photos, please contact Liana Sanders, publicist, (204)943-3222, FAX.: 949-1739.


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