Sweeney Todd takes stage at CBI on Purim

By Jewish Review

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At first glance, “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street,” seems to have no place in the world of Jewish holidays. The classic Stephen Sondheim musical is full of slashing razors, spurting blood and cannibalism.

But Purim is a topsy-turvy holiday, in which we are told to celebrate adloyada—until you don’t know anymore—meaning you can’t tell the difference between Mordechai and Haman, good and evil.

Beth Israel’s Purim schpiel will play out Thursday evening, March 20 in the main Sanctuary, following a brief service at 7 p.m. Noted Portland jazz-fusion band Klezmocracy returns to Beth Israel for an evening of music, dancing, noshing and drinking in Goodman Hall from 8 to 10 p.m.

This adults-only (21+) evening is open to the community. Cost is $5 per person in advance or $10 at the door and includes one drink token. RSVP to 503-222-1069. Congregation Beth Israel is located at 1972 NW Flanders St.