From the Beit Am Stage to the Golden Globes
It’s the moment you’ve all been waiting for! CRDAA snagged an exclusive interview with Netflix star and beloved Ramah Darom alum, Amit Rahav, and we can’t wait to spill the tea. Amit played the role of Yanky Shapiro in the hit Netflix show, Unorthodox, which is nominated for several Golden Globes including Best Limited Series. Amit was part of the Mishlachat at Ramah Darom in 2016, where he worked on Tzevet Drama. Tune in to the 78th Golden Globe Awards Sunday, February 28th at 8:00 PM EST. Here is a glimpse of our recent catch up with Amit:
Question: When did you know that you wanted to become an actor?
“For as long as I can remember, I wanted to perform and was always drawn to the stage. As a kid, I remember storming into my parents’ room, toy microphone in hand, and performing while they were still asleep, waking them up with songs and shows. Entering this field wasn’t a decision, I truly believe I was born to do this.”
Question: How does it feel to be part of such a successful show?
“We never expected this amount of love and recognition. The show aired in March 2020, right around the time Israel went into its first COVID lockdown. I remember thinking, ‘well this was fun, but there is no way anyone is going to watch while we are dealing with a global pandemic.’ I’m so grateful that the opposite happened. My life has obviously changed, with a lot more Instagram followers, and new opportunities. Every day I hear from people from all stages of my life, and my phone is constantly blowing up, but when I want to disconnect, I turn off my phone and am back to my normal life, which is a grounding experience. I’m thankful for how it all went. The whole experience was special. There is so much to respect in the story and each scene was thought out with so much detail. We all took it so seriously. Shira Haas, who plays Esther “Esty” Shapiro, is now one of my good friends, and it was such a pleasure to work with her. I’m so honored to be a part of it.”
Question: What was it like playing an Ultra-Orthodox character?
“As a non-Orthodox Jew, it was very challenging. Yanky is such a different person than I am. I was born in Tel Aviv, the capital of secular Judaism in Israel. I grew up very removed from the ultra-Orthodox community and didn’t know anyone firsthand. I had to dive deep into Yanky’s character to successfully play the role. I watched movies and read about ultra orthodoxy to help me connect to Yanky. What helped me the most was connecting with Yanky’s desires, and dreams. While I had to work to understand the rituals of his community, it was his inner feelings that I could connect to. Now having had this unique experience, I have a different understanding of this community and learned the importance of looking at each person as an individual and not all as the same.”
Question: What is next for you?
“I just finished filming something new here in Israel. It was insane to shoot during the pandemic. I recently received my second dose of the vaccine, so I plan to come to Los Angeles soon to finally meet my managers in person! I have meetings set up and I’m ready to take on new opportunities!”
Question: What are your best memories from Ramah Darom?
“First of all, being at camp was one of the happiest times in my life. It was really pure happiness at Ramah Darom, and I never imagined I would fall in love with this place so much. I was so excited every day, and I really loved the Mississippi mud brownies and the challah!! I still remember jumping on the blob, walking to the waterfall outside of camp, and singing with my campers on Shabbat. But really, I felt like I could be my best self at camp and was so accepted. I could be sincere with all of the people around me. It’s such an important place -it’s educational, but so much fun and you meet your best friends. I’m so grateful I had the chance to be there.
Question: How do you spend your time when you are not filming?
“I live in Tel Aviv and spend time with my friends and family. I am always watching movies and tv shows to learn from great artists and gain inspiration.”
Question: What is your top Tel Aviv restaurant recommendation?
“Taizu. Everyone should go here!” (menu linked!)
Question: What advice do you have for someone who wants to pursue their dreams?
“Never give up. Try and keep trying to just do your best. Never rest. Continue learning, doing research, taking classes, and try to gain inspiration from anywhere you can. Most importantly, believe in yourself, visualize your future, and be strong!”