This weekend, Buffalo welcomes Kansas City playwright Victor Wishna for a special residency centered on his moving play Tree of Life, presented by the Jewish Repertory Theatre in partnership with the Buffalo Jewish Federation and the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropy. Wishna will speak Friday evening at Congregation Beth Abraham, deliver the D’var Torah Saturday morning at Temple Beth Tzedek, and engage the community in conversation following two staged readings of his play.

A nationally recognized dramatist and storyteller, Wishna is known for writing that blends humor, humanity, and historical insight. Tree of Life invites audiences to reflect on Jewish identity, memory, and the resilience of small Jewish communities.  “The Kansas City Jewish community has known for years what a talented artist Victor is,” shares Jay Lewis, President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Kansas City. “Beyond that, Victor is a terrific human being and a passionate Jewish community leader, currently serving on our Federation board and as president of his synagogue. I’m so glad the Buffalo Jewish community will have the chance to experience both his work and his spirit.”

Wishna will attend both Buffalo performances – Saturday evening at the JCC’s Sellers Theater and Sunday at Temple Beth Zion – offering audiences a behind-the-scenes look at the play’s development and the real-world experiences that inspired it. Each reading will be followed by a community conversation connecting the play’s themes to the lived experiences of community members who grew up in small Jewish communities.

Sunday’s performance will also serve as a benefit for the Jewish Community Legacy Project, which supports small congregations navigating moments of transition.

Tickets are $36. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit JewishRepertoryTheatre.org or call the JRT Box Office at 716-306-3086.