JOEL CHASNOFF draws on real life experiences from Jewish day school to serving in the Israel Defense Force to create his comedy routine.

NY comic brings positive fun to Maimonides Auction

By JEWISH REVIEW

article created on: 2009-03-15T00:00:00

Comedian Joel Chasnoff will headline the Maimonides Jewish Day School 2009 Auction and Raffle on March 22 in an evening of fun, fund-raising and friendship.

The evening will include the auction, raffles, dinner and a tribute to Priscilla and Tony Kostiner in honor of their tireless efforts in Jewish organizations throughout the community.

Chasnoff’s comedy is based on real Jewish experiences—such experiences as his nine years in Jewish Day School, his service in the Israel Defense Forces, and family Shabbat dinners. Unlike many Jewish comics, stereotypes play no role in Chasnoff’s act.

After graduating with honors from the University of Pennsylvania, Chasnoff joined the Israel Defense Forces serving as a tank gunner. At the end of his service Joel performed stand-up comedy for soldiers on bases throughout Israel. He now lives in New York City with his wife and twin daughters, where he performs in local comedy clubs when he’s not touring the country.

According to the Jerusalem Post: “Chasnoff’s material for his comedy and his strong Jewish identity are inextricably intertwined. His comedy reflects a high level of knowledge that Jews across the spectrum—from secular to Orthodox—can relate to.”

In another review, The Forward said, “Chasnoff is a big hit with remarkable ability. His unique brand of Jewish humor is based on positive experiences of Jewish life.”

The annual auction benefits MJDS, which serves children in their preschool and elementary years. Maimonides is a constituent agency of the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland.

This year’s auction will be at Congregation Neveh Shalom, 2900 SW Peaceful Lane, at 4:30 p.m., March 22.Tickets are $54. RSVP to KidsRPriceless.com or 503-977-7850.