"The Cabaret Is a Mirror": Roy Assaf on Chaos, Comedy, and Cinema

Actor and creator Roy Assaf speaks about the bold satire of Cabaret Total, the quiet heartbreak of The Art of Waiting, and what it means to surrender to the unknown in pursuit of truth on screen and stage

"I don’t subscribe to the idea that in film, one must ‘play small’—that often results in bland, lifeless performances."

1. Cabaret Total is a visual and thematic whirlwind. Where did the inspiration come from?

My love for cabaret and circus began in childhood. I’ve always been drawn to this dazzling art form that fuses multiple disciplines with breathtaking virtuosity—pushing them to their limits—while also delivering sharp, socially conscious a messages. Chaplin’s films left me in awe, Cabaret was a major inspiration, and I must mention our own Hanoch Levin, who created some of the boldest cabarets I’ve ever seen. This film grew out of the stage production Bordel Total – Ceasefire, which I co-created and performed in as the host—true to the spirit of classic cabaret.

2. What role does the cabaret genre play in telling the story of today’s Israel?

Cabaret has always been a tool of resistance—especially in France and Germany, where it originated. In Cabaret Total, I attempt to reflect the current social chaos in Israel. No one is spared: the conservative establishment, an increasingly nationalistic education system, a heavy-handed government. They all come under fire. Satire helps us deal with uncomfortable truths.

3. Tell us about your role in the film.

I play the Cabaret Host—the joker. It’s essentially two characters in one. When the host steps onto the stage in full makeup and costume, they transform—even in terms of gender identity. It was an immense challenge that pushed me to the edge of my abilities as an actor. The role also demanded circus skills and physical endurance. I trained hard. This film took seven years to make.

4. In The Art of Waiting, your character is far more restrained. How did you connect to him?

While I haven’t experienced fertility treatment myself, I connected deeply with the character’s drive to succeed—both professionally and personally. His ability to repress, to push forward no matter what, felt very familiar. That kind of denial is something many men understand intimately.

5. You have great chemistry with Nelly Tagar in the film. What was it like working together?

Nelly is amazing. From our first rehearsal—when she slapped me in front of the director as part of a scene—we clicked. She’s bold, generous, and fully present. Acting alongside her was a joy.

6. Was there a scene in The Art of Waiting that was especially demanding?

Yes—the final scene where Liran runs to the hospital, desperate to save his relationship. It required deep vulnerability, without the usual masks. It was raw, intimate, and very real. A big challenge.

7. How do you choose your roles?

I look for emotional or intellectual connection—something that stirs me. I see acting as art, not just performance. Sometimes I’m drawn more to the director’s vision than to the character itself. Either way, there has to be a spark.

8. Do you approach theatre and cinema differently?

Not in essence. The only difference is in proximity—the camera offers intimacy. But I don’t believe film acting has to be “smaller.” That idea often leads to lifeless performances. I act physically in film when needed. The heart of the performance remains the same.

"When I was younger, I wanted to get everything right. Now, I understand that great moments often come from surrendering to the unknown."

9. Are there dream roles you still hope to play?

On stage, I always enjoy returning to the classics—Chekhov, Shakespeare, and Hanoch Levin. In cinema, I’m excited by original material. The more complex and challenging the character, the better.

10. Looking back, how has your approach to acting changed?

I’ve become more comfortable with risk. In the past, I was obsessed with control. Now I understand that magic often happens in chaos. You have to be willing to let go and truly feel the moment.