5^th August 2014 – The Tricycle Theatre has refused to host the UK Jewish Film Festival for the first time in eight years, for so long as it is supported by the cultural department of the Israeli Embassy in London.

Following a series of conversations, the Theatre confirmed the news to the Festivals’ organisers by email just weeks before the schedule was to be finalised, leaving organisers shocked and saddened by the decision. In a written explanation, outlining their Board’s decision, Jonathan Levy, Chairman of The Tricycle, said: “Given the present situation in Israel/Palestine, and the unforeseen and unhappy escalation that has occurred over the past three weeks, including a terrible loss of life, The Tricycle cannot be associated with any activity directly funded or supported by any party to the conflict…the Tricycle will be pleased to host the UKJFF provided that it occurs without the support or other endorsement from the Israeli Government.”

The UK Jewish Film Festival has received support from the Israeli Embassy for the last seventeen years, portraying the unmistakable cultural connection between Jewish people and the State of Israel. Yet the festival has always been entirely apolitical, showcasing perspectives from both sides of the conflict in the Middle East. The UKJFF considered the demands of the theatre to be entirely unacceptable and is now taking its screenings elsewhere.

The Festival had expected to hold at least 26 of it films at the Tricycle including 6 high profile gala events and is now in the process of making alternative arrangements so that visitors’ enjoyment of this year’s festival in November, will not be too badly affected.

Judy Ironside MBE, Founder and Executive Director of the UK Jewish Film Festival said, “We pride ourselves on showing a diverse programme of films, which present a comprehensive view of international Jewish life and Israeli films are of course an important part of that. We have always sought to convey a wide perspective on the conflicts in the Middle East and initiate open dialogue with our audiences and guest speakers; and the Israeli Embassy have always supported us in this. The Tricycle have refused to take this into account in their decision.”

Stephen Margolis, Chairman of the UKJFF, added, “The Jewish community as a whole has enjoyed a successful relationship with the Tricycle and it is extremely saddening that they should look to politicise this festival by making demands that the UKJFF could never accept.”

-ENDS-

 For more information, please contact Mark Frazer on 0207 284 6961/07876 402 678 or mfrazer@theproffice.com