Jerry’s Habima Theatre Celebrates Legacy of Inclusion

A special reception held on Wednesday, March 12, greeted friends, family and supporters of Jerry’s Habima Theatre, Georgia’s only inclusive theatre company showcasing actors with disabilities. The evening was a pre-theatre gathering followed by Habima’s presentation of “Fiddler on the Roof JR.”

With 32 years of plays and thousands of attending ticket holders, a sold-out crowd filled the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (MJCCA) theatre that night, applauding and cheering for the cast. In attendance as always, was Lois and Jerry’s family members, an array of friends along with dedicated supporters of the exceptionally talented cast and theatre group.

The reception that evening honored the late Lois Blonder and her husband, Jerry, celebrating their legacy and contributions to Jerry’s Habima Theatre. Founded 32 years ago, Jerry’s Habima Theatre has since won prestigious awards for its outstanding mission celebrating and fostering inclusion and celebrating disabilities with theatrical opportunities for this important community.

Janel Margaretta, chief impact officer, offered welcoming words as she introduced the reception stating, “Celebrating the incredible legacy of Lois Blonder will always be meaningful. Lois was both a pioneer and a leader in disability inclusion programming and we at the Marcus JCC miss her every day. Her wise counsel and feisty personality will forever be missed, and we are honored to carry on Jerry and Lois’ legacy.”

The reception clearly was a loving gathering for Habima’s visionaries. In addition to the wealth of opportunities provided to adults with disabilities, the MJCCA’s Blonder Family Department for Special Needs offers an inclusion program and strives to provide the necessary accommodation and flexibility for youth who require additional support to access the transformative opportunities available at the MJCCA.

As the reception continued, Lois and Jerry’s daughter, Dale Dyer, gratefully shared, “My parents spent their lives pouring their hearts and resources into others, not the least of which was the special needs community. Having a grandchild of their own with developmental disabilities, they were sparked to give their time, energy and love to ensure that every person, no matter their abilities, felt valued and empowered. Through their work with the Department of Special Needs here at The Center, they have not only changed lives, they have touched hearts, and built a heritage of compassion and acceptance. Their work is a reminder to me that true greatness lies not in what we have, but what we give to others.”

Dyer sensitively added, “I know I can speak for my sister, Leslie, when I say our parents’ unwavering commitment inspires us every single day. They showed us the power of love, the importance of kindness, and the incredible impact one can make. We will strive to continue their legacy. So, we honor our mom tonight, not just for what she did for Habima Theatre and the entire Special Needs Department at the MJCCA, but for who she was. I am forever grateful for her generous heart which had room in it to love each of you, countless others and especially her family. She is forever my hero, and I am beyond proud to be her daughter.”

Susie Davidow, retired director of The Blonder Family Department for Special Needs at the MJCCA, supported the same sentiment and summed it up on a well-deserved note, “Lois dared, cared and shared.” Davidow focused on how Lois dared to make a difference, cared without limits and shared her resources and heartfelt belief that everyone should have opportunities to express themselves with no barriers.”

The actors did a sensational job and standing ovations ensued with smiles that lit up the theater from the cast and adoring fans alike. With iconic songs like “Tradition,” “If I Were a Rich Man,” and “Sunrise, Sunset,” the love in the room spilled from the stage onto audience members.

Stephanie Alterman, theatre arts director and producer of Jerry’s Habima Theatre, said, “Programs like Jerry’s Habima Theatre are a testament to what the arts can achieve — fostering confidence, inclusivity, and connection. Especially in today’s world, stories of tradition and resilience remind us of the power of community and our shared humanity.”

Cast members and the staff were featured in the program with some having been in plays for most of the 32 years. Habima actress Bess Winebarger, a 20-year veteran, said, “Jerry’s Habima Theatre is like a second home to me. I’ve been part of this program for so many years, and it has transformed my life in ways I never imagined. I’ve grown as a performer, built lifelong friendships, and found a place where I feel seen, supported, and celebrated. Every year, stepping onto this stage makes me feel so proud of myself, our cast, and how much we accomplished together.”

While the reception was a special tribute, it was a fitting preamble to enter the play, knowing that Lois and Jerry were there in spirit, dedicated to having spent over three decades making it possible for actors with disabilities to shine brightly in the spotlight. In true Jerry’s Habima Theatre style, they continue to remind us, the show must go on!

For more information, please visit Atlantajcc.org/habima/