In "Trayf," compelling performances drive a thoughtful exploration of faith, friendship, tradition and change

The word “trayf” is the naughty list for food in Jewish dietary rules. It refers to anything that’s off-limits for those following traditional Jewish laws.

“Trayf” is also the name of a play by Lindsay Joelle. The play explores the contrasting worlds of tradition and modernity through the lens of two young Chabad-Lubavitcher Hasidic Jews in 1990s New York. The action follows Zalmy and Shmuel, lifelong friends who drive a “Mitzvah Tank,” helping fellow Jews connect to their faith. As Zalmy begins to question his strict, insular upbringing and forms a bond with Jonathan, a secular Jew searching for meaning, the play delves into themes of identity, friendship, faith and the struggle between duty and personal freedom.

Joelle’s story is deeply rooted in Jewish tradition and culture, but it resonates far beyond its specific setting and offers a universal reflection on friendship, identity and the tension between tradition and modern life. You need not have a personal connection to Jewish heritage to identify with this play.

“Trayf” crackles with energy and is defined by its smart, lively dialogue that oscillates between lighthearted moments and weighty themes. It’s been described as a “bromance,” but that term does the play’s more meaningful themes and concerns a disservice. The play makes some fun use of bro-y banter, but beefier themes always underlie the scenes.

With spot-on directing by Aaron Sparks, Bryce A. Miller as Schmuel, Jacob Schmidt as Zalmy and Spencer Sickmann as Jonathon are outstanding.

Schmidt’s Zalmy is particularly compelling with a nuanced performance that captures the contradictions of a devout young man with quirks, vulnerabilities and a developing fondness for secular entertainment. Schmidt’s performance is humorous and heartfelt, making Zalmy a highly relatable character.

Miller’s Schmuel captures his character’s deep devotion to faith while balancing his loyalty to his best friend. Sickmann delivers a compelling, heartfelt and nuanced portrayal of Jonathon, the play’s disruptor, that showcases his character’s earnestness and vulnerability. Sickmann provides a compelling portrayal that showcases Jonathon’s earnestness and vulnerability during his quest for spiritual connection.

The play’s only female character is Leah, who makes a brief appearance to challenge the sheltered world of Zalmy and Schmuel. Annie Zigman nimbly delivers a pragmatic, independent Leah who can also exhibit moments of warmth and understanding.

Director Sparks and scenic designer Lily Tomasic make effective use of the theater’s intimate space – especially with their use of the outsized Mitzvah Tank. Tomasic’s design enhances the emotional and thematic weight of the story. The sparse set underscores the themes of isolation and connection that run throughout the play.

Sound designer Kareem Deanes deserves special recognition for the clever, creative use of music and songs, especially during the scene changes. Especially notable is his delightful use of Lou Reed’s “Take A Walk On the Wild Side.”

In this production, “Trayf” is an engaging and satisfying exploration of faith and friendship balanced with a meditation on the customs that shape us, the relationships that sustain us and the choices that define us – leaving the audience to ponder, perhaps with a lingering smile, questions about tradition, community and personal growth.

 “Trayf” continues at The J’s Wool Studio Theatre through September 29. For more information, visit the New Jewish Theatre web site.