"And You Shall Be A Blessing" is a groundbreaking new musical about the life of Debbie Friedman (1951-2011), the trailblazing Jewish singer-songwriter who transformed the landscape of contemporary Jewish worship, and who the New York Times called the Joan Baez of Jewish folk rock. With original music and lyrics drawn from Debbie Friedman's beloved catalog, including 'L'chi Lach' and 'Mi Shebeirach,' this intimate and moving production celebrates the life and legacy of a woman whose music gave voice to the hopes, struggles, and spiritual yearnings of a generation.

Written by playwright Deborah Yarchun, the play traces Friedman's journey from a young girl in suburban Minnesota to an iconic figure on the global Jewish music scene. Along the way, it explores the personal challenges she faced, the deep spiritual convictions that shaped her artistry, and the profound connection she forged with audiences across the Jewish world and beyond.

At once a celebration and a meditation, "And You Shall Be A Blessing" invites audiences to experience the timeless songs of Debbie Friedman in a whole new light and to discover the woman behind the music that continues to move and inspire.

Welcome to The White Theatre at The J, the region’s premier community theatre, where audiences enjoy high-quality productions, concerts, and special events in a beautiful, state-of-the-art venue. Located in Overland Park, KS, The White Theatre at The J is a non-profit organization dedicated to delivering exceptional artistic and educational experiences.

Our Mission:

The White Theatre at The J produces professional-quality theatre experiences that inspire, entertain, and connect our diverse community. We stage stories that cultivate an inclusive environment, spark conversation, and celebrate Jewish culture and values. We pride ourselves on our passion for theatre and the arts, and we are honored to share that passion with our artists and audience members.