Jewish Theatre of Pittsburgh to present ‘Driving Miss Daisy’

The Jewish Theatre of Pittsburgh (JTOP) continues its comeback season by presenting Alfred Uhry’s stage play, “Driving Miss Daisy.”

Set in Atlanta, the story follows the seemingly contentious but genuine friendship between a wealthy Jewish widow, Miss Daisy, and her African-American driver, Hoke.

The relationships among the characters are the heart of the play, and reflect the changes occurring in southern American culture from the 1940s through the 1970s. Issues surrounding religious, racial and cultural prejudice surface as the relationship between Daisy and Hoke develops through the same decades as the Civil Rights Movement takes hold.

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Miss Daisy also experiences conflicts with her son Boolie that further illustrate the theme of change within the South.

The play was made into a 1989 motion picture starring Jessica Tandy and Morgan Freeman, which received nine Academy Award nominations. It won for Best Picture, Best Actress, Best Makeup and Best Screenplay.

Established in 2001 by Tito Braunstein, JTOP is a nonprofit theater company. From 2001 to 2006, it produced 19 shows, including musicals, dramas and comedies, from well known to new and innovative. Each play was selected for its Jewish character, experience and cultural values, but also for its universal appeal.

JTOP went dark in 2007 but was revived in 2012, with a new board of directors and a new venue — Rodef Shalom Congregation, in Levy Hall, at 4905 5th Ave., Shadyside.

The production opens Wednesday, Nov. 7, and runs through Sunday, Nov. 18. Weeknight and Saturday performances are at 8 p.m., and Sunday performances are at 2 p.m. The matinee performance Sunday, Nov. 11, will also feature a post-show talkback led by the director, Marci Woodruff.

Call ShowClix at 888-718-4253 or visit jewishtheatre.showclix.com for tickets. Group rates are available by calling 412-521-4373.