… A JCC [Jewish Community Center] in California did it last year, but oddly enough, that’s the only place I’ve ever heard of someone doing this,” said Claire Avitabile, the director of performing arts at the Sabes Jewish Community Center in St. Louis Park.
Avitabile was inspired to organize the festival last year after traveling to New York and literally being brought to tears by some of the comedy she saw during a Jewish arts event.
The Twin Cities fest will feature local and national comic talent. It also coincides with Purim, the holiday when “Jews are essentially commanded to make merry,” said Mark Bloom, a local musician and festival performer.
But, of course, non-Jews are certainly invited to the party.
In fact, Avitabile, while the organizer of the event, isn’t herself Jewish. (She’s quick to note that the Jewish Community Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer.)
“I guess I’m proof that what’s funny is funny,” said Avitabile.
There’s a wide range of acts planned, from PG fare to adult entertainment.
