By The West End Times
The Bais Chaya Mushka Seminary – Ben Weider Educational Centre recently held its 7th annual Feast of the Nations gala at Westmount’s Congregation Shaar Hashomayim.
After enjoying a splendid cocktail reception, over 350 attendees feasted on a cornucopia of culinary delights, courtesy of Toledano catering.
Enthusiastic Seminary director, Rabbi Abraham Cohen, introduced Stan and Tina Leibner who were honoured with a Chai-Life award for establishing a scholarship fund to assist students in need.
Deadpan Q92 morning man Aaron Rand sprang to life with his own brand of auction shtick —raising additional cash in the process. Guests then proceeded upstairs to join another 600 who’d arrived for the main event.
Singing his way into Shaar’s main sanctuary from the back pews, Israeli star Dudu Fisher performed an ear-boggling array of musical genres in four languages (Hebrew, English, Yiddish and Ladino).
The concert was interspersed with comedic interludes and personal anecdotes spanning his varied career.
Explaining his evolution from serious cantor to Broadway performer, Fisher described how profoundly touched he was by seeing a London production of Les Misérables in 1986, and felt that it would figure prominently in his life.
Indeed ‘Les Miz’ radically changed — almost defined — his career, as Fisher interpreted the leading role of Jean Valjean on the Great White Way, in Israel, London’s West End and for Queen Elizabeth II.
Another ‘Les Miz’ favorite “Bring Him Home” was dedicated to 23-year-old Israeli hostage Gilad Shalit who is in his fourth year of hamas captivity.
Fisher’s poignant rendition elicited an emotional standing ovation and by show’s end, he had brought the Shaar down, amidst thunderous applause. Frenzied fans snapped up every available CD as the gracious and patient Fisher posed for countless photo ops and signed autographs.
Notwithstanding the rock star-worthy ambience which prevailed post-concert, Fisher reminded everyone what a truly noble cause they were supporting. Seminary Dean, Rabbi Michael Dahan and Rabbi Cohen were thrilled to note that this year’s fundraising goal was met.
Established in 1988, the school is named for Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson, wife of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson –who has been recognized as the most influential Jewish leader of our time. It provides superior Jewish education for postsecondary female students.
Indeed many graduates are assuming leadership positions around the world, pursuing teaching careers and raising proud Jewish families.
go ester shes just the best
hey its z cohen i say the same thing about ta…..
hes the best
Hey guys!
rivka di u win s/t???
Ta
you make us all proud every year with the Dinner
May the dinners continue to grow and become more Hatzlochodik every year!
Rivkah an esther- great to see you, it was a nice surprise!!
love you sis.
Carl & Enid you guys are the backbone of the School.
Love from Yerushalayim
Rivkah’le, you look great, bli ayin harah!
We love you Rivkah’le… CH cousins!
I missed it heard Dudu was phenomenal!!
where is Shaindel Zissel Rechel?
very nice
go ester and rivkahh