‘Rabbis Gone Wild’ unites local clergy in laughs March 5

By JEWISH REVIEW

article created on: 2009-02-15T00:00:00

Six rabbis walk onto a stage. That’s not a lead in to a bad joke. Rather, it’s the concept behind Rabbis Gone Wild, a night of comedy to celebrate the off-kilter holiday of Purim by bringing together six local rabbis to yuck it up March 5.

Proceeds will benefit the Florence Melton Adult Mini-Schol in Portland.

Rabbis Gone Wild showcases rabbis from three major Jewish movements: Reform, Conservative and Orthodox. It’s open to the entire community.

The evening’s yuck-it-up rabbis are Rabbi Michael Cahana of Congregation Beth Israel, Rabbi Tzvi Fischer of the Portland Kollel, Rabbi Daniel Isaak of Congregation Neveh Shalom, Rabbi Ariel Stone of Congregation Shir Tikvah, Rabbi Chanan Spivak of the Portland Kollel and Rabbi Arthur Zuckerman of Shaarie Torah.

Between them, the rabbis have experience in theater, poultry management, puppetry, weapons of mass destruction, Talmud and good deeds.

Wondering what kind of schtick to expect from these respected community leaders? The night calls for improvisational comedy, a talent show and a bit of old-fashioned stand-up.

Rabbis Gone Wild non-clergy MCs are a stitch, too: David Fuks, performed for five years with the improvisational comedy group “Waggie and Friends.” Today, Fuks is CEO of Cedar Sinai Park. Joining him are Emily Simon, a Portland attorney, and Jonathan Emanuel, Neveh Shalom youth director.

Adding to the Jewish jocularity will be Cantors Gone Wild, three liturgical singers, who will raise the roof the rabbis are sure to bring down. Cantor Ida Rae Cahana, Cantor Judith Schiff and Cantor Barbara Slader will participate.

“We are psyched about the response we’ve been getting from the community. People can’t wait to see the rabbis get down,” said Sarah Liebman, who directs Machar and Portland’s Melton program.

Tickets are $18 in advance or $20 at the door. $36 patron tickets offer a reserved seat. $10 tickets are available to young adults through Moishe House, Urban Jews, Hillel or with student ID card.

Doors open at 7 p.m. Event begins at 7:15. Dessert will be served. Cash bar.

The event is co-sponsored by Portland Florence Melton Adult Mini-School, Machar, Urban Jews and Moishe House. Email melton@jewishportland.org for venue information.