The XXIII International Festival of Jewish Youth Clubs and Communities "Purimspiel in Vitebsk" will be held from March 17-19, organizers informed a BELTA correspondent.
The XXIII International Festival of Jewish Youth Clubs and Communities "Purimspiel in Vitebsk" will be held from March 17-19, organizers informed a BELTA correspondent.
For over 20 years, during the celebration of the joyous holiday of Purim, the festival has been held in the northern Belarusian city. Following ancient traditions, teams of Jewish youth clubs and communities present performances about how the wise Esther and the brave Mordecai saved the Jewish people. A large number of competitions are held, the main one being for the best stage interpretation of the traditional Purim theme. "We expect over 250 participants from different countries in Vitebsk. The theme of the festival changes every year; this time it is: 'We Live With This!'. This phrase will also conclude a short non-competitive performance prepared by a young troupe based on the memories of a Holocaust survivor," explained the festival director, Sofia Karpas.
This performance, titled "Moment of Remembrance," will open the event program today at the Yakub Kolas Theatre, after which the delegations will proceed to the foundation stone on the bank of the Western Dvina, at the site of the former ghetto. Here, the festival participants will remember the victims of that tragedy with prayers, light candles, and tie colourful ribbons on trees. An invited opera singer from Israel will perform a prayer-song.
The official opening of the festival and the show project "Purim in Faces" will begin at the Vitebsk Concert Hall this same evening. The competitive performances of the groups can be watched on Saturday on the stage of the Yakub Kolas National Academic Drama Theatre. And here, on Sunday, the closing Gala Concert will take place. "Since Purim is a holiday of deliverance, primarily from physical annihilation, its important elements are feasting and merriment. Throughout the three days, participants can expect parties, festive lunches, and dinners with traditional dishes," the interlocutor noted.
Furthermore, this year the Kolas Theatre square will host the festival-fair of Israeli opportunities "Shalom, Israel!" – an event prepared by OFEK ISRAELI company and the representation of The Jewish Agency for Israel in the Republic of Belarus. It will introduce guests to the modern life of Israeli cities, the country's culture, economy, education system, healthcare, career guidance, and social security. The program also includes meetings with representatives of various state spheres and structures, representatives of educational institutions, and cultural figures; presentations, lectures by invited guests; master classes and entertainment for participants of all ages; and a prize draw.