The Nelson Jewish community invites everyone to an evening of ceremony, music and dance to celebrate Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, on Wednesday, December 4, at 7:30 p.m. at the Old Church Hall, 602 Kootenay Street in Nelson.
Hanukkah commemorates the struggle of Jewish people for the freedom of religious expression. In 164 B.C., the Maccabees, few in numbers, but mighty in spirit, rose fearlessly against many and powerful armies of Greek-Assyrian rulers and prevailed.
On a deeper level, the miracle of Hanukkah is a time of renewal. Hannukah offers us an opportunity to fearlessly quest for the right of an authentic expression in service of unity, peace and prosperity for all.
The evening will include group-singing of traditional songs, the Hanukkah traditional tale, a kabbalistic lore of 44 candles, and lighting the menorah, a nine-branched candelabrum.
Klezmer and Israeli music will be performed by vocalist Allen Merovitz (formerly of The Flying Bulgur Klezmer Band), clarinetist Nicola Everton (a 20-year veteran of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra), accordionist Catherine McGrath (of Nelson’s Heavy Shtetl), international jazz and classical bassist Rob Fahie, and local belly-dance percussionist, Jovan Wallis.
A traditional dance instructor by profession, Israeli native Haya Maor will be present to lead people in dancing.
Tickets are $10 in advance at Otter Books or $15 at the door. Children 12 and under are free.
Guests are invited to bring a dessert or snack to share as well as non-alcoholic beverages. Dancing shoes are recommended.