LIFE
Jewish News
Spring 2022 • ISSUE NO.7
Magazine
INSIDE
Don Black Nicola Shindler Moses Reuven Gal Gadot
Season Of Insta Fashion Decades Of Lyrics
Elliot Levey
DAYS OF TRAVEL
& Joel Grey
Hours Of Dining Passover Time
50 years of Cabaret
BEYOND BRICKS & MORTAR
Charles, Minibus Driver
At Pesach, we tell the story of how the Israelites worked as slaves, with the charoset on the Seder plate representing the mortar that they used while working to build the Egyptian pharaohs’ buildings. At Jewish Blind & Disabled our bricks and mortar play a vital role for people with physical disabilities and / or impaired vision to live independently. However, our support goes way beyond the bricks and mortar. Our 24/7 house manager service, maintenance team, minibus service, and tenancy support all play a vital role in enabling the hundreds of people we support to live life as they choose and not as their disability would otherwise dictate.
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THE MASTER’S VOICE
DON’T PASS OVER THE PLATE
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56
GREECE LIGHTNING
QUICK-FIX FASHION
SONGS FOR THE SOUL
18
IT’S A WIN
INSIDE
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SPRING 2022
Editor’s letter There’s been a lot of fuss about the 50th anniversary of The Godfather, but barely a nod to the film that shares the same golden date and won more Oscars. By devoting this issue of Life magazine to Cabaret, we are giving Bob Fosse’s film the fanfare it deserves, strikingly to cover star Joel Grey, who created the role of The Emcee. The acclaimed stage production of Cabaret continues at The Playhouse with
a mostly new cast, except for star Elliot Levey, who shares his love of pineapples and loathing for inauthentic portrayals of Jews. Legendary lyricist Don Black, TV producer Nicola Shindler and hip hop Chasidic artist Moshe Reuven are also part of the eclectic entertainment in this Spring/Passover issue. To be fortunate enough to celebrate the festival in peace while Jews and their fellow citizens pray for survival in Ukraine is sobering. On page 26, we reflect on Passover in equally difficult times and charities that
do so much to help others find their own exodus feature on page 49. This year we come together in a way Covid prevented last year. To those, like me, who will have a first seder without people they loved and lost – zichrona livricha (may their memory be a blessing). Chag sameach!
Brigit
Editor Brigit Grant brigit@jewishnews.co.uk
Alex Galbinski Naomi Nakum Nicole Lampert
Features Editor Louisa Walters louisa@jewishnews.co.uk
Designers Daniel Elias John Nicholls Sarah Rothberg
Art Director Diane Spender diane@jewishnews.co.uk Jewish News Editor Richard Ferrer richard@jewishnews.co.uk Contributors Debbie Collins
Advertising Sales Marc Jacobs sales@jewishnews.co.uk 020 8148 9701 FRONT COVER Joel Grey in Cabaret
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
IT’S ALL NEW COMING TO YOU
CINEMA, TV AND A JUBILEE – TIME TO GREET SPRING, MARK THE QUEEN’S 70TH ANNIVERSARY ON THE THRONE AND ‘THE KING’ BEING JEWISH
ROYALTEA
Good Behaviour?
The Queen has never been to Israel, but celebrations to mark her Platinum Jubilee suggest a Holy land or JNF influence. The Queen’s Green Canopy, a unique tree-planting initiative has their green fingers all over it, as does the slogan. AJEX has its own fundraiser, 70 Miles for 70 Years, a sponsored 70-mile walk, jog, run, cycle or swim. Money raised is for 70 trees planted in Her Majesty’s name in places Jewish servicemen and women have served. The Big Jubilee Lunch (2-5 June) signals a street party and your chance to take tea with the people next door whom you last saw clapping for the NHS. For good wishes to the Queen in person, be in Manchester on 24 July, when she visits the Jewish Museum as part of her programme to celebrate with British non-Christian communities. We have already given via British-Israeli composer Loretta Kay-Feld, who was commissioned to write a tune to mark the monarch’s 70 years on the throne by a member of the Royal Family “close to the Queen”. Our money is on the Countess of Airlie, Queen’s Lady of the Bedchamber since 1973 and the granddaughter of German-Jewish philanthropist Otto Kahn. Meanwhile, the fabulously creative artist Charlotte Posner (@charlotteposner) has royal ideas of her own. One of them is this limited edition print (above), “inspired by years of the Queen’s fashion and grace”. Available framed and unframed from www.charlotteposner.com
The actions of the anti-Nazi 62 Group was the subject actress and writer Sarah Solemani tackled in her adaptation of Ridley Road. Now she has teamed up with Steve Coogan to co-write and star in Chivalry on Channel 4, a contemporary sexual politics satire set in the #MeToo era. Solemani plays a woke indie film director called upon to save a controversial thriller produced by ‘ladies’ man’ Coogan. Asking if romance is even possible under the new conventions, those who like a love story not hampered by rules raise your hands now. Airing date is TBC, so keep your eyes peeled.
Perfect Sunset
If you are considering uprooting and moving to LA, season five of Selling Sunset on 22 April will propel you forward. Only Jewish twins Brett and Jason of The Oppenheim Group could tempt you to buy a multi-million dollar Malibu mansion rather than a des res in Bushey and they do so as you catch up on the lives of their over-preened posse of real estate brokers. Jason O is single again as he broke up with Chrishell Stause before we had time to say “subject to inspection”, but that won’t stop us watching.
Awkward Conversation As Sally Rooney turned down an offer to sell Hebrew translation rights for her novel, Beautiful World, Where Are You to Israeli publisher Modan, there is no reason to promote the TV adaptation of her novel Conversation with Friends. But the BBC 3 series starting in May is directed by Dublin-born Lenny Abrahamson, who was barmitzvah at an Orthodox synagogue and had maternal grandparents and a paternal grandfather from Odesa, in Ukraine so, with apologies to Modan, we can’t ignore his contribution or the hope that he shed some light on the situation as he worked with the author. It stars Jewish actor Jemima Kirke (Jessa in Girls), who features her mother’s vintage store in NY for the Girls’ finale.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Bobby Popping Oklahoma
Go See
Jewish American director Daniel Fish has brought his ‘stripped back, smoulderingly intense, radically inclusive’ new Broadway version of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! to the Young Vic. It runs until 25 June. Grease, the nation’s favourite musical, is at the Dominion from 3 May. Directed by Nikolai Foster with choreography by our very own Arlene Phillips as well as Peter Andre, who is too old to play Danny but not dance contest host Vince Fontaine. My Fair Lady, Lerner & Loewe’s musical, doesn’t need to be sold is on at the Coliseum from 7 May.
Just flagging Robert Popper, who has stopped making Friday Night Dinner and written a new comedy series about “super-intense friends”. The obvious title for a show about besties could only be I Hate You, which, according to Popper, is about “the one friend you can say anything to and do anything with: the idiotic in-joke, and the laughing till you almost puke, as well as the insane bickering and late-night shouting matches. It’s about that one friend you really love – and really hate”.
Elvis is Jewish
In June, we get to see Baz Luhrmann’s biopic, Elvis, starring Austin Butler as the eponymous blue suede shoes legend and Tom Hanks as his controlling manager, Tom Parker. Reliably enjoyable, as the Moulin Rouge director’s projects tend to be, what we learn about the man who transformed 1950s music overnight won’t include his Jewish roots. Unknown to most and played down by others, Elvis Aaron Presley had a Lithuanian Jewish great-great grandmother, Nancy Burdine, who arrived in Memphis in the 19th century. Nancy begot Martha, who begot Octavia, and then Elvis’ mother Gladys arrived, so the maternal line confirms Elvis was one of the chosen. As the biopic is about the early years, we won’t see Elvis wearing the Star of David and chai he donned in later life, which was custom-made by his downtown jeweller Harry Levitch, but we can console ourselves with Jailhouse Rock and Hound Dog, which were written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
Grease
That’s Our Gal!
Just in time for Passover, Death on the Nile arrives on Blu-ray and DVD. Gal Gadot stars briefly in Kenneth Branagh’s film as the unlucky half of the picture-perfect honeymoon couple on the Egyptian cruise and, as Linnet Ridgeway Doyle, she is married to Simon Doyle (played by Armie Hammer). Hammer, who denied allegations of cannibalism in 2021 but was dropped by his agents, is half-Jewish and his father, Julius, was from Odesa in Ukraine. Branagh’s co-writer Michael Green, who also wrote the series American Gods,, has an Israeli mother, which brings us back to Gal and Egypt, as the actress is in pre-production on the film My Fair Lady
6 LIFE jewishnews.co.uk
Cleopatra, although she is currently filming Snow White,, in which she is the evil queen.
Sending good wishes for spring with better days ahead and a very happy Pesach!
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Hoping to see you THIS year in Jerusalem
Teddy Park, a project of the Jerusalem Foundation, is a place of hope and peace where all the children play together
For more information: Susan Winton, UK National Director, +44 (0)20 7009 9649, susanw@jfjlm.org www.jerusalemfoundation.org
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INTERVIEW
SONGS
for the soul
MOVE OVER MATISYAHU, MOSHE REUVEN IS IN TOWN. NAOMI NAKUM HAS QUESTIONS A RABBI AS WELL AS A RISING STAR, Moshe Reuven Sheradsky infuses spirituality into songs to rousing success. Featured in the likes of GQ, Flaunt, Esquire, Forbes and Business Insider, his music is inspired by his religious roots, a passion for knowledge ,exploring new ideas and a desire to connect people of different backgrounds through the power of sound. With nearly two million followers on his verified Instagram page, Moshe is the fourth Orthodox Jew ever to sign to a leading record label and Creative Music Group has helped the careers of Future, Jennifer Lopez and The Chainsmokers, so he is in good hands.With Reuven’s first body of work due released soon, his evolving audience will be introduced to the nuggets of Chasidic wisdom he shares via his second Instagram page, Chassidus by Moshe Reuven (@hassidus), which is followed by thousands, and demonstrates his unique skill for simplifying complex ideas in Chasidus in a way that’s relatable. Have you been religious all your life and how has this inspired your musical journey? My music has changed based on who I’ve become along my life’s journey. I wasn’t always religious, no. When I remember my childhood, high school and college days, I remember the popular hip-hop, rap, R ‘n’ B, and pop songs and how they influenced me and my peers (not always for the positive). When I was a junior in high school, I decided to live a more meaningful life. Already
making music, I started to think about how maybe I could be a force for good, using music to channel it. I would come up with lyrics that would reflect on the social issues of a high school student as a way of inspiring people to see things from a higher perspective, in the hope that their hearts would be turned in a better direction, as I felt mine was. In college especially I began to connect more and more with my Judaism. I connected with the Chabad Rabbi on campus, Rabbi Lipskier, and began learning from him. Soon enough, I was frequently going to yeshivah, ending up staying longterm. This led to me thinking of ways to incorporate my music from the standpoint I grew into, having over that journey become a fully observant Orthodox Jew. Your debut single You Are Not Alone, released during the pandemic, resonated with millions suffering from loneliness and depression topped the charts in four countries, including the US and UK. How much can music heal and unite in turbulent times? Maimonides famously said: “Knowing the problem is half the cure.” He was the lead physician, rabbi and philosopher of his time and is still championed today. Music is an expression of self. When a nation undergoes suffering, and people express it sincerely and eloquently, they can be improved by the expression alone. Just through the limits of music, melody and words, people can feel it, resonate with it and see it as the clarification of the problem. When we suffer, we
sometimes can’t put it into words, let alone a song. I think artists, the best of them, are a channel for people’s pain, resonating with them and making the problem clearer so it cures, at least halfway, as Maimonides says: “You are not alone.” Music makes people feel less alienated, which in and of itself can do wonders. Maimonides isn’t your only rabbinical inspiration. Wasn’t Rabbi M.M. Schneerson (the late Lubavitcher rebbe) referenced in your GQ interview? And Chabad’s Rabbi Manis Friedman, who was the rabbi who advised that when it comes to impacting others, I should just focus on being my truest self and expressing this through song, creating something beautiful with the talents God has granted me. In turn, he said, the listener will be inspired to tap into who they truly are without limitations. Your page, Chassidus by Moshe Reuven, is full of short, powerful teachings set against striking infographics. It’s impressive. What is its purpose? It’s important to me that I fulfil what I believe is my mission on earth – to impact others – whether that’s through music, speaking, writing, my actions, whatever it may be. So, regardless of the song, regardless of the message, I sense a higher calling, a sense of purpose, that I have to make sure the listener is improved in some way shape or form because they heard a song I worked on.
With whom in the music industry (Jewish or otherwise) would you like to collaborate? Matisyahu has been a huge influence on me. When I started becoming observant, besides his music, there were no other Jewish artists I felt I could relate to. His tunes blended my past musical interests with my budding journey to observant Judaism. Matisyahu also showed me how an Orthodox Jew can continue making music in a secular world without it being a contradiction but, instead, a compliment. He was the only artist I listened to for at least a year straight (with some exceptions); however, I would say that each Jewish artist I discovered was helpful at each stage of my journey. I’m curious how you find Orthodoxy compatible with the notoriously secular rap music genre? As far as rap music originating in secular beginnings goes, what isn’t always known is that all Jewish music today has its origins in secular music. In fact, even the more accepted forms of Jewish music originate in secular music from the early and mid-1900s. For example, Avrohom Fried (who for Chasidim is like the epitome of Chasidic music), talks about gleaning inspiration for his songs from secular artists and their music. I believe that doesn’t make it any less possible to uplift or utilise it for a higher cause. Rap music itself is kelipahs nogah – energy dependent on how it’s used. It has traditionally been a space where violence, foul language and degradation of women has thrived throughout the years since its inception in the early ’70s, so I’m excited to be able to be a positive impact. Instagram: @moshereuven; @hassidus www.moshereuven.com Listen to chart-topping debut single You Are Not Alone via: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=p07aFEh5ldYLIFE jewishnews.co.uk 9
INTERVIEW
Pilgrim’s progress
Jewish actress Louisa Clein will walk 1,000 miles for a reality TV show. She chatted to Nicole Lampert
O
n Kol Nidre, she was sleeping on the floor of a freezing cold church with seven strangers, while Yom Kippur was spent watching a Mass ceremony in a cave. This is not the way most nice Jewish girls spend the High Holy Days but, for actress Louisa Clein, it was still a spiritual experience. The former Emmerdale star was one of seven celebrity contestants taking part in the award-winning BBC2 reality show Pilgrimage, filmed last September and aired next week. Over 15 days, the ‘pilgrims’ of different faiths followed in the footsteps of sixth century Irish monk Saint Columba from Donegal, in Ireland, to Scotland and the Hebrides, covering more than 1,000 miles. While the pilgrimage was mainly focused on a Christian experience, each of Louisa’s fellow travellers – interior designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen (non-conforming pagan), Sikh cricketer Monty Panesar, TV personality Nick Hewer (lapsed Catholic); reality show star Scarlett Moffatt (Christian), comic Shazia Mirza (Muslim) and Paralympian lapsed Christian Will Bayley – talked about all the faiths while walking along some of the most scenic routes of the British isles. “When I was offered the chance to be in it, it was so left-field, but so interesting I said yes,” recalls Louisa, 42. “When else would I get the chance to do something physically challenging while at the same time doing something really spiritual? “I saw we would be walking on the Isle of Mull and that made me certain it was something I had to do – my father was a doctor there before I was born and it was a very special place to him. “There was also the thought that, as the mother of three young children, some enforced time on my own would be quite nice – although I started missing the kids after half a day. “But the whole experience was something really incredible. We did a lot of reflecting and talking as we walked. The whole point of a pilgrimage was to become more aware of your surroundings and we were in some
Louisa Clein
absolutely incredible spaces. education. But the problem is, “I don’t know if I came out of you can’t hide who you are. My the journey any wiser or more darling mother had this foreign spiritually aware, but certainly accent; nobody could pronounce everything felt heightened. our surname. I questioned a lot of things and “We were this crazy creative appreciated what I was doing.” family who were into music and Louisa was there to represent the had big curly hair. We didn’t really small Jewish community, and cooked fit in and I later learned that we were a traditional Friday night dinner for her known as ‘The Jews’. “So to go on a fellow pilgrims, which she posits as one television show and talk about being Louisa with close friend Rob Rinder of the highlights of the show, while they Jewish feels like quite a thing. There is stayed in a Loch Ness youth hostel. so much antisemitism we have to deal “It was a big eye-opening moment as they all said: ‘Do with – I think I surprised the others by talking about the you do this every week?’ And they couldn’t believe it,” security we have at our schools and synagogues – but I she says. “I reminded them you don’t have to be Jewish am also a proud Jew and a staunch Zionist.” to have a big family meal once a week.” Louisa’s entrée into the Jewish world came via a But she admits there is a big part of her that is still teacher at London’s The Drama Centre and when she learning about her heritage. eventually moved to Golders Green she loved the long Her mother Channa was a Dutch Holocaust survivor hours of the bagel shops. – she was given to the care of a non-Jewish family from Louisa is married to barrister Jeremy Brier – with Rob babyhood to the age of five while her parents managed Rinder acting as their matchmaker by way of Benedict to survive the war hiding with the resistance – who came Cumberbatch. She was about to start working on Judge to England as a teenager to work as a musician. John Deed when Benedict, with whom she was working, While she married a Jewish man, Louisa’s father Peter, suggested she meet his barrister friend Rob, who they lived a life where their Jewishness was almost ended up becoming a close friend. Jeremy is Rob’s best secret. The only festival they celebrated was Passover. friend and the TV star was best man at their wedding. “There is a part of me that still feels quite exposed Louisa’s sister, Natalie Clein OBE, is a classical cellist and in coming out as a Jew,” admits Louisa. “Because of appeared with Louisa and Rob in the documentary my mother’s experiences, we grew up in Bournemouth My Family, the Holocaust & Me. with a very non-Jewish lifestyle and I had no Jewish Louisa and Jeremy have three children – two girls, nine and eight, and a boy, five – and live in north London. “It was hard to be away from the family for that long; it made me realise family really is everything,” says Louisa. “But it was a wonderfully liberating experience. I am not ashamed of being Jewish and I loved telling the others about what an extraordinary, beautiful religion it is.” Pilgrimage: The Road to the Scottish Isles starts on BBC2 on 8 April at 9pm
10 LIFE jewishnews.co.uk
Louisa, right, with sister Natalie
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INTERVIEW
Black STAR
WITH SO MANY MUSICAL TALES, BRIGIT GRANT WANTS THE ‘PELE OF LYRICISTS’ TO KEEP ON SHARING SOME LYRICS MAKE SUCH AN INDELIBLE IMPRESSION, they exist without the music. Take Sunset Boulevard’s As If We Never Said Goodbye:
The whispered conversations in overcrowded hallways The atmosphere as thrilling here as always Feel the early morning madness Feel the magic in the making Why everything’s as if we never said goodbye. Then there’s the titular theme from the 1971 Bond film:
Diamonds are forever, hold one up and then caress it Touch it, stroke it and undress it I can see ev’ry part, nothing hides in the heart… When recited, these words are poetry, but the man who wrote them disagrees. “Poetry is written to be thought about. Lyrics are written to be sung,” says Don Black, who then sings a line from Sunset, the musical he wrote with Andrew Lloyd Webber that earned them both a Tony. “Poetry you can put down and go back to. A lyric has to be instant and in time. You’ve got three minutes to say it all.” Don has been saying it all to music created by his many collaborators since 1965; the year flagged on his website beside Thunderball, his Bond theme with John Barry. By then, he had tried stand-up comedy, but sat down to write songs for the singer Matt Monro, whom he was managing, and for whom he wrote the hit Walk Away. Robbie Williams describes Don (formerly Donald Blackstone of South Hackney) as the “Pele of lyricists”, which is not too shabby for the son of a garment presser father and shop worker mother who listened to “Jewish gypsy music” mingled with songs Don loved by Cole Porter and Irving Berlin. These songs have been getting airtime recently on BBC Radio London as Don revisited the show he did for Radio 2, which,
Clyde, which takes its rightful place at incidentally my late father-in-law Stanley the Leicester Square Arts Theatre in two never missed. What Stanley and other days’ time. listeners (of all ages) enjoyed was the “It originally opened in America 10 chance to hear singers from a bygone years ago, but only lasted three months on era interspersed with the host’s anecdotes. Broadway,” said Don. “But it caught fire Don has so many and will play a Vic Damone ballad, then offer a gem such and got a cult following across America. We’ve been trying to get it here for a as the time he was at Lloyd decade and, finally, a very Webber’s New York apartment enterprising producer, working on Aspects of Love Dan Looney, bought when Steven Spielberg the rights.” Heralded popped round. by several concerts Lloyd Webber did at Theatre Royal, the introductions Drury Lane, the and Spielberg interest has been gasped: ‘You’re not palpable since the Don Black are it found a permanent you? You wrote my home, albeit for favourite title song three months. of all time: Diamonds “The Arts only has Are Forever!” 400 seats, so we’re Kanye West, aka hoping it will go to Ye, also likes that a bigger West End song and sampled theatre,which it will it in a rap, but the if the reaction is point here is Don’s anything to go by. humility in the face “But there are of huge praise from lots of musicals Spielberg or anyone waiting to come to – and that’s what the West End because made this Oscar/Tony/ of Covid.” Olivier award-winner such Married for 60 years to a popular collaborator in an beloved wife Shirley, who industry of egos. Top: Don Black and his late wife, Shirley. enabled him to be the ‘sanest To emerge so level-headed Above: Don with Andrew man in the room’, Don with a love for the business Lloyd Webber references her constantly intact at the age of 83, is best though she died in 2018. Accepting her elucidated by the title of his memoir, loss – “That final stage of grief they talk The Sanest Guy in the Room, which was published last year and completed after he about” – alludes him as they had been together since meeting at was hospitalised with Covid. a dance in Clapton. Don was serenaded out of the hospital Of course, Don’s own songs remain an by nursing staff performing his song, intrinsic part of their story – “she’d look Born Free. over and say that’s terrible” – he recalls, For the past three years, Don has but told podcaster Mark Steyn that been working on a musical adaptation the best lyrics of grief are were those of the Orson Welles classic, The Third in the Paul Williams song You and Me Man. Joined by Christopher Hampton, Against the World. composer George Fenton and Trevor Nunn to direct, it will follow Don’s other new musical, Casanova, which he wrote And, baby, when one of us is gone with his son, Grant, and opens next year And one is left alone to carry on in Vienna. Well then remembering will have But before that, there’s Bonnie and to do.
Anyone who loves musical theatre would be reluctant to leave a conversation Top: Don with Frances Mayli McCann with Don Black and Jordan Luke Gage, who will star as Bonnie and Clyde, above – the colour, comedy and heart in his stories are so compelling – and when he shares the one about changing the lyrics for As If We Never Said Goodbye for Barbra Streisand at her Bel Air home, you want more. “She made me a cup of tea. It was just so lovely and normal, like talking to you,” he says. Of course I wanted him to keep talking, about working with Gypsy’s Jules Styne, with whom he wrote Bar Mitzvah Boy, and Marvin Hamlisch, who asked him to write extra lyrics for The Goodbye Girl and referred to Shirley as Don’s “secret weapon”. Along with his wife, Don has lost so many composer friends of late, the most recent being Leslie Bricusse, who died last year. Playing their music is how he keeps them alive. Among those great late talents is Billy Wilder, the legendary director of the film Sunset Boulevard, who Don met at the musical’s opening night in LA. “He told Christopher Hampton and I we were very clever, to which I replied: ‘Why is that Mr Wilder?’ and he said: ‘You didn’t change anything.’” I squealed at some of these anecdotes, so it was fortunate for him that his busy diary – “which stops me monitoring my decline” – took him away. I think we both knew I would never have said goodbye. LIFE jewishnews.co.uk 13
INTERVIEW
It’s a
WIN
HENRY FORD SAID: “QUALITY MEANS DOING IT RIGHT WHEN NO ONE IS LOOKING.” EVERYONE IS WATCHING WHAT NICOLA SHINDLER DOES
G
oogle ‘Jewish UK drama’ and only one show appears. Ridley Road. The fourpart series about Jewish opposition to British Fascism in the 1960s, which aired last October, was the first drama to put characters of the faith front and forward. And without a klezmer soundtrack or thick shtetl-honed accents to infuriate. There had not been such community rejoicing about a drama since Ukrainefleeing Ephraim Aldridge arrived in season five of Downton Abbey, and we are still thanking Ridley Road’s creator Sarah Solemani and TV producer Nicola Shindler for proving Jews do
count, albeit very occasionally, on TV. On the list of questions for multiaward-winning Nicola, the ‘paucity of Jewish-lead shows’ was low down for fear of irking, but it had to be asked and she was happy to answer. “I’ve had other projects around Jewish families, but they have been called niche, because the Jewish population is really small in this country,” she says, relaying the broadcasters’ response. “When they are looking for big mainstream dramas, they think that’s too small a population to focus on. But it is changing. “People know it’s the responsibility of drama to look elsewhere and tell
Ridley Road was produced by Red Production Company, which Nicola founded
That special award in the hands of Nicola Shindler, guarded by Lenny Henry and Suranne Jones
stories about people who are not often on screen. I think the general push towards more diversity means there will be more Jewish stories.” So that’s great news and if anyone can rally interest in giving us more representation it’s Nicola, former BBYO madricha and a fan of Let’s Fress kosher deli in Prestwich for Sunday bagels. Nicola is a super-fast talker. A powerhouse in the world of successful drama, petite Nicola might look small beside the long table in the Manchester office of her new company Quay Street Productions, but she is typically the biggest person in the room. Certainly any room in which TV is being discussed, because she knows her onions, having gone from script editor on Granada’s Cracker to starting her own indie – Red Production Company – from her Manchester front room and selling a majority stake in under 30 years. Starting again –
“because it was time to leave” – she is now loving her new independence, but takes an impressive roster with her. Making daring decisions from the start, she opened her Red slate in 1999 with Russell T Davies’ Queer as Folk, a series about gay love, and wasn’t prepared for the ensuing fuss. “To me, a good story is a good story and if they’re gay, straight or from Mars, it just doesn’t matter,” she says. Away from the contentious fuss, the series broke ground and records, propelling Nicola forward to produce Paul Abbott’s series Clocking Off, Sally Wainwright’s Off Unforgiven, Scott & Bailey, Last Tango in Halifax and Happy Valley and Danny Brocklehurst’s Ordinary Lies. That Nicola now co-owns US-based Final Twist Productions with bestselling Jewish author Harlan Coben (Red made The Stranger, Safe and Stay Close) tells you why she is the producer equivalent of an ‘actor’s director’ for script writers. She appreciates them and they are her LIFE jewishnews.co.uk 15
Richard Fee, Harlan Coben, Danny Brocklehurst and Nicola Shindler
The cast of It’s A Sin, which captured the youth audience
“I THINK THE GENERAL PUSH TOWARDS MORE DIVERSITY MEANS THERE WILL BE MORE JEWISH STORIES” priority, besides which, she can’t write herself. “Give me a blank piece of paper and I can’t do anything. Give me one sentence and I’ll give you 12 notes on it. But that’s my job and what I do well. Why would I not put the writers at the centre of a production when they know everything? “It’s a collaboration, so they need a director to come on and make it better. And we need brilliant people in every head of department to enhance it. But I need the writer to make sure the ultimate truth is there on screen.”
The day before the interview, BAFTA announced its TV nominations for 9 May and Russell T Davies’ It’s A Sin has 11 nominations. The series about five friends growing up during the AIDS epidemic is another Red production and Nicola saw off the sceptics, who thought it would just be a piece of nostalgia that would appeal to only to those who remembered the 80s. “But the audience who picked up on it were young people, as they were reflected in the story. “These young people had never heard about AIDS or HIV, and certainly didn’t know the extent of the deaths and the pain that they brought. That was the audience.” On paper, the audience demographic
for Nicola’s first production at Quay Street is anyone who watched and remembers Crossroads, the ATV soap set in a fictional motel. A sure sign you did is being able to hum the Tony Hatch theme tune that cut to motel owner Meg Richardson’s sitting room, with wonky sets that were spoofed in Victoria Woods’ Acorn Antiques. But there is a lot more to the story, as Russell T Davies will show in Nolly, starring Helena Bonham Carter as titular star, and actress Noele Gordon, who was sensationally sacked by the channel to the dismay of the soap’s fans.
“You don’t need to know Crossroads or Noele Gordon. You’ve just got to enjoy television,” insists Nicola, talking super-fast. “It’s got very good behindthe-scenes action and it’s very funny. It’s for anyone who wants a really good piece of entertainment, but the angle is the way a woman was treated. “The way women have been dismissed and treated generally in many industries. At its heart there is also a beautiful love story, so I think it’s really universal.” Harlan sends Nicola his new books before they are published. “I really love his writing, so it’s extraordinary to be able to read them early,” kvells the producer, who is now backed by ITV Studios and working on a slate of programmes with a stable of writers old and new, as well as an adaptation of the Israeli drama Kacha Ze created by Prisoners of War Assi Cohen. In 2019 Nicola received Bafta’s special award for her outstanding contribution to television. It’s kept with other awards in a cabinet in the Quay Street offices. Come 9 May, it might need reorganising.
Interview by Brigit Grant
Crossroads will be dramatised in Russell T Davies’ Nolly
Red’s Unforgiven by Sally Wainwright
16 LIFE jewishnews.co.uk Nicola with David Furnish, left, Elton John and It’s A Sin cast members
INTERVIEW
GIR L PAG E
POWER
WHEN BATYA BRICKER CAME ACROSS A BOOK FOR GIRLS, HER BRAIN STARTED TICKING AS GENERAL MANAGER of Exclusive Books, the largest book chain in South Africa, nothing with a spine on a shelf passes by Batya Bricker, particularly Good Night Stories For Rebel Girls, which spawned a new genre in youth publishing. “At the time, there was talk about creating a version centred on Jewish women, but no one ever did,” she says. “Perhaps the project was too large or the complexities too daunting.” But Batya, self-confessed wordlover, spiritual-seeker and Torah teacher, was unfazed. “Being brave and making a mark on the world is creating something that is needed, that doesn’t yet exist.” As it was for so many, enforced lockdown gave her the time she needed to create Goodnight Golda – a Handbook for Brave Jewish Girls (and their mighty friends), which introduces curious young females to Jewish women who made their mark in the world, and some who continue to do so. Over 130 pages, the reader meets Anne Frank, Hedy Lamarr, Judith Kerr, Donna Karan and others, on what Batya describes as “a journey through fearlessness,” adding: “What it looks like, smells like, feels like. Each woman’s story forced me to confront what I think, what I believe, what I want.” Goodnight Golda was Batya’s faithful companion during the pandemic. “It was a source of amusement, education, comfort and inspiration. I hope this is what it will bring to readers too.” Goodnight Golda is available from www.bookdepository.com or, for more information, visit www.goodnightgolda.com LIFE jewishnews.co.uk 17
10 LIFE jewishnews.co.uk
INTERVIEW
THE
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Fifty years after winning an Oscar for Cabaret, Joel Grey tells Brigit Grant about how he wasn’t willkommen at all
VOICE
O
n the opening night of Cabaret at The Playhouse, Eddie Redmayne’s dressing room was strewn with cards and flowers. But there was one elaborate bouquet that surprised him and made the most impact. It was from Joel Grey. The gesture wasn’t lost on Eddie, who was about to make his debut in the role of the Emcee, which Joel Grey originated on stage and for which he then won an Oscar in Bob Fosse’s film. Keen to have an “unfiltered take” on the Kit Kat Club’s enigmatic host, Eddie avoided rewatching the film while rehearsing Rebecca Frecknall’s acclaimed production, but he did after receiving rave reviews, only to realise again that “it’s a stunning and searing piece of work”. With all the anticipation and ticket demand for Eddie’s Cabaret, the 50th anniversary of the film has gone unnoticed yet, in 1972, it soared past firm favourite The Godfather to win Best Film at the Oscars. It actually won eight of the 10 categories for which it was nominated but, while The Godfather’s golden anniversary has been marked by a Netflix drama series, there has been barely a whistle blow for Cabaret. Joel doesn’t look too bothered about the paucity of fuss, as for him: “It’s just hard to believe we made the film 50 years ago. It feels like yesterday.” He asks me: “What did I find recently?” as if I might know. “I found photos of Liza Minnelli and me just playing on the road. Yes, it seems like yesterday.” Liza had already been cast as cabaret diva Sally Bowles before director Bob Fosse came on board in 1971 after begging Jewish producer Cy Feuer for the job. But the love he felt for Fred Ebb and John Kander’s stage musical did not extend to Joel, who had created the role of master of ceremonies in Hal Prince’s 1966 Broadway production and appeared in 1,165 performances.
From one Emcee to another: Eddie Redmayne, left, with Joel Grey, who originated the role
Basing the Emcee on “the worst thing I’ve ever seen – a sweaty, tasteless performer I saw at a St Louis nightclub and never forgot,” Joel also created the look of the man. “I found a make-up that was like a marionette, sort of feminine and sort of masculine. Lipstick with a little manly beard on his chin.” Now iconic, the image and Joel’s talent earned him a Tony, but there was no approach from Fosse to be in the film. “No, he approached everyone else,” chuckles the actor from his luxury Manhattan apartment. “But the producers wouldn’t have it and insisted it was me. They gave him only one option. Me. Or he could… Let’s just say I went into it without his blessing. We never really figured out what it was that he was resistant about. Except that I think maybe he wanted to play the part.” Joel was born in Cleveland, Ohio, the son of Goldie Epstein and Mickey Katz and started his career in children’s theatre, performing with his clarinettist father, who played Yiddish versions of pop songs.
This early introduction to Yiddish and the fact that Joel directed the hit Yiddish-language production of Fiddler on the Roof in New York suggests fluency of the lingo, but that’s not the case. “Not at all. I wish I was because I think it’s a rich and wonderful language. I’m very comfortable with Yiddish, but don’t use it on a daily basis.” With a rise in antisemitic hate crimes in heavily Jewish populated New York, defacing a poster for a Yiddish show would seem likely, but Joel says not. “No! What we got was just a tremendous amount of love and acclaim about hearing the language and knowing the history. Going through all that made audiences rethink.” Set in Berlin in 1931 as the Weimar Republic was coming to an end, Cabaret also makes audiences aware of the history, and the film achieved this on a wider scale with its jarring cutaways of horrific hate crimes against Jews and communists. For authenticity, Fosse wanted the film to be shot in Germany, so the actors and ultimately the viewers could experience the locations mentioned in Christopher Isherwood’s semi-autobiographical book, The Berlin Stories, upon which the show and the film are based. That Isherwood’s arrival in Berlin coincided with the Nazi party gaining political traction was not lost on Joel, who arrived to make a film there only 23 years after the war had ended. “I was born in 1932, so I only knew about the history, pain, misery and sadness of what the Holocaust was and what the world was like by being told. I went to visit Dachau and it was devastating. But it put the right thing in my mind. And my idea for the Emcee was to make him so horrible that he would be a lesson of what to stay away from.” LIFE jewishnews.co.uk 19
INTERVIEW In the film, as in the show, time when other movies didn’t the Emcee entertains an dare, it was an opportunity to audience of burgeoning come out – but it was too bigots at the Kit soon. Same-sex relations Kat Club with the have only been legal affectionate If nationwide in the They Could See US since 2003, Her Through My so his reluctance Eyes, which he to identify was sings to a fellow understandable. performer who Now Joel can is dressed as an fearlessly wave a ape. Ending the flag at an LGBTQ+ song with the parade, but has not excruciating line: been seconded as a “She wouldn’t look spokesperson. “Alas, no. Jewish at all”, it is There are so many people repellent for an informed willing to talk about it.” Life viewer. “It was cut after I first for the diminutive octogenarian did it on stage because there were hasn’t really changed. “I’m the same people who misunderstood it,” says Joel with his daughter, guy,” he smiles. Bob Fosse didn’t like Dirty Dancing star Jennifer that guy and the feeling was mutual, Joel. “They thought it was literal, but it wasn’t. So I was told not to do it, but as Joel describes working with him I would let it slip out all the time. Naughty boy!” as a “horrible uphill struggle”, but acknowledges Joel married Jo Wilder in 1958, had two the finished film’s brilliance. children – Jennifer of Dirty Dancing fame and The friendships honed on set with co-stars Liza, James, who is a chef – then came out as gay, Michael York and Marisa Berenson remain to this 33 years after his divorce. day, but Joel did not want – “not for a second” – to By then, the actor was 82 and perfectly work with Fosse again. There is no hint of this comfortable telling People magazine that his family discord in Cabaret, as Joel gets maximum screen and friends had known about his sexuality and time and a distorted image of his powdered face that he didn’t like labels. In his memoir, Master opens the film. Fosse won the Best Director Oscar of Ceremonies, he also recalls hearing adults for Cabaret and Joel got Best Supporting Actor, discussing gay men being jailed for their sexuality and did so over Al Pacino’s legendary Michael just as he was realising his own. Corleone in The Godfather. As the star of a film that boldly tackled He doesn’t need a big 50th anniversary party to polyamory, bisexuality and gender fluidity at a remember that! From above: Joel’s Emcee inspired by a sleazy St Louis performer; Liza Minnelli as Sally Bowles and Marisa Berenson as Jewish Natalia Landauer and, below, Joel with the Kit Kat Club girls in Berlin
10 LIFE jewishnews.co.uk
‘S LIFE LESSONS
Face of the era, model Marisa Berenson was the Jewish beauty in the 1972 film – and discovered the missing half of her story
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“
on’t you see what is happening in Germany today? I am a Jew and you are not.” These are the lines Marisa Berenson delivers as Jewish heiress Fraulein Natalia Landauer in the film Cabaret. One of many memorable scenes, Natalia’s words to her would-be Protestant suitor Fritz remind us she will only marry another Jew and what that means within the antisemitic totalitarian future facing Germany. With tears of fear in her eyes, the beautiful woman drives away. Just 24 when Cabaret went into production, Marisa Berenson had already been chosen as the face of the era by Yves Saint Laurent, and her distinguished European aristocractic heritage led her to socialise with the likes of Salvador Dalí, a fellow collaborator and friend of her grandmother, designer Elsa Schiaparelli, and meet Vogue editor Diana Vreeland, who coaxed her into modelling. Her extraordinary CV of life experiences also includes
childhood dance lessons with Gene Kelly, a portrait sitting request from Greta Garbo and a huge portfolio of shots by David Bailey, Herb Ritts and Richard Avedon. In each of them she looks exquisitely patrician and not the obvious choice for the role of a Jewish woman. But this was the 70s, when Hollywood was even more resistant than it is now to cast typically Ashkenazilooking women in Jewish parts. It was Marisa’s elegant profile that Luchino Visconti wanted for Death in Venice and Bob Fosse sought her out to audition for refined Jewess Natalia. Ironically in today’s world of like-for-like casting Fosse scored, because Marisa is Jewish. “I’m half-Jewish, but didn’t discover this until I was 17,” says the actress, model and muse from her stunning home in Marrakech. “My mother [Gogo Schiaparelli] told me I was Jewish, but she was Catholic and I was raised as one, but then learned my father, Robert, was of Lithuanian Jewish descent and the family’s original surname was Valvrojenski.” Orthodox in Lithuania, the Berensons were secular after reaching America and eventually abandoned their faith for Christian options. Marisa wishes she’d known more. “My father died when I was 16, so I never had the chance to talk to him about it. But being half-Jewish made playing Natalia very interesting because the part helped me discover that part of me. I realised what Jewish people went through and how traumatising it was to be Jewish during the war. “But I’ve never understood why Jewish people are so stigmatised. I’ve read loads about it and know the history of antisemitism goes back to before Christ. But I don’t really understand why.” Being in Germany for the making of Cabaret left a lasting impression on cast and crew. “The atmosphere of being in Berlin behind that wall separating west and east was incredible.” Marisa also got to understand Bob as a director, as they had met briefly at her screen test, “which was very
scary” and now he was stressed about sharing the same studio as Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, which might run over and delay Cabaret’s shooting schedule. “When we were on set I was trembling so badly Bob asked me why my hat was shaking,” recalls Marisa. “It was only my second movie, I was very young and I had to learn to speak English with a German accent [she speaks five languages]. It was terrible. Fosse was a fantastic director, but he didn’t make it easy for actors. But by the end, we became really close friends.” Beating Gwyneth Paltrow to the trend for living well and meditating , Marisa only looks a few years shy of her screen self in 1975 when she was Lady Lyndon in Stanley Kubrick’s Barry Lyndon. But maintenance and fitness are less important to her than her spiritual practice, which she started when she was 17 and relied on to help her through the death of her sister, Berry, who died on the American Airlines flight 11 that hit the World Trade Centre on 9/11. “We were very close and I loved her very much,” says Marisa, who was also on a flight that day that diverted to Newfoundland. “Spirituality gives you strength for forgiveness and that’s important because if you hold on to negativity it makes you bitter and miserable.” Marisa exudes peace, which she attributes to living in Marrakech, the focus of her latest book, Marrakech Flair. Still in demand, she was Lady Capulet in Kenneth Branagh’s Romeo and Juliet in 2016 and has made at least three French films in the past year. But it was in Paris in 2018 that she got to salute the 50th anniversary of Cabaret – fittingly, as the mistress of Berlin Kabarett (pictured, bottom centre) in a 1930s burlesque show that echoed the Kit Kat Club. “I got to sing and dance, which I always wanted to do,” says Marisa, who never got that chance in Cabaret, but she did get a Golden Globe nomination and reclaimed the missing half of her story.
LIFE jewishnews.co.uk 11
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INTERVIEW
“ I ’ M Jew” A Nominated for an Olivier award for Cabaret, Elliot Levey discusses exotic fruit and authentic casting with Brigit Grant
M
oments after being welcomed to Twitter by Matt Lucas (@RealMattLucas), actor Elliot Levey (@ellevey) was receiving compliments about his pineapple. “I loved you and your pineapple very very much!” said one enthusiastic Tweet tailed with a pineapple emoji, which would have baffled anyone who has not yet seen the musical Cabaret in which Elliot stars. Audiences who have seen the show since it opened at The Playhouse in February, won’t have forgotten the exquisite moment when Elliot, as elderly Jewish fruit shop owner Herr Schultz, presents nonJewish landlady Fraulein Schneider with the tropical fruit. To give some context to this gift, a fresh pineapple in depression-ridden 1937 Germany was a luxury seldom seen, and the duet It Couldn’t Please Me More (aka The Pineapple Song) conveys this and leads to the couple’s engagement. Their wedding, which uses the smashing of glass to signal Kristallnacht, is a sub-plot that was excised from the 1972 film Cabaret.. But Elliot saw it so long ago that most of the show’s content was a total surprise. “I had these vague images in my brain and the music was familiar, but I entered with genuine ignorance
you can’t fake because I’d never seen it on stage,” he recalls. To say the actor, best known for Shakespeare at the National and persuasive TV roles, has since got to grips with Cabaret is an understatement. As we went to press, the man who “doesn’t do musicals” was about to hear if he’d won an Olivier award for best supporting actor in a musical. Ahead of the drum roll, Elliot was endearingly modest about being one of Cabaret’s 11 nominations. “They’ve never really come my way before, so I was thrilled about this one.” But then he heaped praise on the show’s director, Rebecca Frecknall, whom he referred to as “the proper best”, before enthusing about the new cast that takes over the Kit Kat Club tonight (7 April), with Amy Lennox replacing Jessie Buckley as Sally Bowles and Fra Fee taking on the role of the Emcee from Eddie Redmayne, with whom he starred in the film Les Misérables. Elliot and his understudy got Covid at the farewell party, but he remains philosophical despite missing the new cast’s first preview. “It was really sad when they left because we built the show together as a group. And it’s a little family. But it would have been really sad if we were all finishing and if I’d been leaving – I’d have been devastated. There is also a sense of spring cleaning with new people joining, which is a real shot in the arm. They’re so keen and enthusiastic. Not that we weren’t, but everyone has to up their game and sort of go back to the drawing board because it’s new again. Fra has a different
Elliot with his wife, Emma Loach, above, and, below, as Herr Schultz in Cabaret
Brenner Photo by Marc
Fra Fee as Emcee in Cabaret
jewishnews.co.uk 23
INTERVIEW
Elliot, left, as Robespierre and Toby Stephens as Danton in Danton’s Death
energy to Eddie, and the most astonishing voice I’ve ever heard. As soon as he opens his gob, it’s amazing.” Elliot is also giving his pineapple to a new Fraulein Schneider (Vivien Parry) after 150 shows courting Liza Sadovy. “It’s not quite speed dating, but I’ve got to find a different way to win her heart.” In the new era of equal representation, it isn’t lost on Elliot that being cast as the Jewish fruiterer falls within the remit. Born in Leeds in 1973 – “which was like London in the 1950s” – the actor grew up “proper frum, wearing a yarmulke and laying tefillin every day. I was the full megillah.” Although his parents weren’t Orthodox, Elliot’s father, a Geordie, was a tad mystical. “So they sent me to some ridiculous Lubavitch cheder, but I thought it was fun.” Hitting puberty, however, the once zealous Talmud student had an epiphany and spent the next 20 years rejecting religion. “It’s only now, in my old age, I’ve gone chill. It’s fine. It’s good.” Now Elliot is loving being a member of Finchley Progressive and was delighted when his friends expressed rabbi envy at the sight of
Rabbi Rebecca Birk at the barmitzvahs of his three sons. “My boys are cool north London Jews who are blonde and blue-eyed, like my missus. They look like the Jew I want to be. The Jew who never gets cast as a Jew.” That his missus Emma Loach is the daughter of film director Ken, renowned for his Israel critiques and Palestinian support is a curveball, but he joins them at shul and Elliot has nothing but admiration for his father-in-law, who has yet to cast him. “I’ve probably made myself the last actor in Equity ever to be employed in a Ken Loach film,” says the Israel-supporting performer. Elliot plans to stay in Cabaret for the next six months, but will also start rehearsals with director Dominic Cooke for a reimagined production of CP Taylor’s Good with David Tennant and Fenella Woolgar. “It’s a sort of accompaniment to Cabaret as it’s set in Germany at the start of Nazism and revolves around a friendship between a Jewish psychoanalyst – my role – and an academic who is unconsciously drawn into the party. So it slowly descends into one running the camp and the other being in a camp.” First staged 20 years ago, Good is described as the definitive play about the Holocaust in English theatre and Elliot believes CP Taylor, a Glaswegian Jew, has written “the most brilliantly-conceived Jewish role I’ve ever read”. He adds: “It’s full of irony, self-hatred and that ‘don’t lump me in with all the other Jews – we’re not all the same’ attitude.” Originally scheduled for 2020, the pandemic put an end to that, but Elliot is delighted to be moving from one Jewish role to another. “Yes, I’m a Jew now,” he exclaims, but has an unfavourable view of like-for-like casting if the performance isn’t authentic. “I was wholly convinced by Tamsin Greig as the Jewish mum in Friday Night Dinner
Elliot with David Tennant, left
but, for me, Tom Hardy as the horrible gangster in Peaky Blinders is the least convincing Jew. I couldn’t watch it. It’s just a horrible, non-Jewish semi-racist performance. If the minority being represented doesn’t think the performance is authentic... you’ve f***ed it.” Elliot Levey never fails to be incontrovertible and also now convinces as a pineapple grower. “My missus bought me a pineapple bush in a pot as a first night present. Apparently they go dormant in winter and you don’t water them. But it’s on top of the fridge and suddenly it’s gone ‘hello’ and sprung back into life.” Much like Elliot in a musical. For Cabaret tickets at The Playhouse, visit: www.kitkat.club/cabaret-london. For Good tickets at The Pinter, visit: www.haroldpintertheatre.co.uk/good
Elliot Levey, second left, at the Olivier Awards
24 LIFE jewishnews.co.uk
Elliot Levey as Herr Schultz
Photo by Marc Brenner
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MEMORY
Debbie Collins reflects on a time when marking the seder was difficult but extremely important
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HEN shall we do the ‘big shop’? How many boxes of matzah do we need? Are we buying ‘kosher cola’? Such burning questions are raised each year in the build-up to one of the biggest ‘Fresstivals’ in the Jewish calendar. And I say ‘fress’ because much of Pesach is about what you can, can’t or refuse to eat or what your rabbi has ordained acceptable. Seder is a time for families to come together and remember when the Israelites took their last meal in Egypt, with no time to wait for breads to rise before their exodus. The idea of a ‘last supper’ was the focus of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, which, suggest the Gospels, was also a Passover feast, depicting the last meal taken by Jesus with his apostles before Judas betrayed him.This meal was significant to Jesus’ followers whereby he would ‘become’ the Pascal Lamb, offering himself up as the ultimate sacrifice to God. Fortunately, modern-day seders do not require such extreme sacrifices but, for all the food forfeits, the range of Passover food seems to be a rapidly expanding market, including ‘cauliflower rice’ – a delicious addition to the Ashkenazi menu, mirroring the permittance of rice for Sephardi Jews over Passover. Depending on ‘which side you seder’, the Sephardi Pesach menu boasts rice as far as the eye can see, with aromatic-smelling foods – not so much as a whiff of gefilte fish. But no matter your origins, matzah is still the staple food of Passover, and each year brings a more varied style. A welcome addition is ‘matzah crack’: matzah topped with melted chocolate and toffee, then sprinkled with pecans. With so much foodie fun to be had and the ease with which we can buy kosher for Passover items, it’s grounding to remember a much tougher time. Passover eve, 19 April 1943: Germans entered the Warsaw ghetto, rounding up the final numbers to take to concentration camps, as families fearfully continued with their seders. Forever remembered as a survivor of Auschwitz, Pearl Benisch’s story recounts her kitchen cleaning job while in Plaszow. With the help of some brave friends, they managed to collect flour, mix it with water and bake matzah biscuits for the men forced to work in the ‘library’, sorting books and manuscripts. During Passover, so the story goes, Pearl managed to sneak a turnip back to her barracks, which was cut into three, representing the three matzot on the seder table. It was all they had, but it was enough to bless and give them the strength to continue the fight for life and liberation.When the war finally ended, thousands of European refugees remained in displacement camps, unable to return to their communist-controlled homelands. As they waited for the chance to emigrate, the Jewish Joint Distribution Committee provided matzah and wine to nearly one million Jews throughout Europe. Even in the face of adversity, Jewish tradition continues sometimes in places you would least expect it. The Chabad House Nepal is a seder master: what started in 1989 with just 50 people, now plays host to what has become a world-famous communal seder for more than 1,000 guests from all over the world. With the help of the Israeli embassy, enough kosher food and supplies are brought in to ensure this is a seder like no other, with Bangkok and Koh Samui now vying for the superseder title. So, when you’re struggling to store 20 boxes of Rakusen’s, spare a thought for the 3,210 kg of matzah needed for the seders in Thailand.
26 LIFE jewishnews.co.uk
h, circa 1920 Seder at the home of Rabbi Mayer Hirsc
PASSOVER TIME
A seder in Manila, in the Philippines, 1925
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Seder night in Germany, 1934
a seder, 3 April 1939 A Yemenite family holds
US Army Chaplain Eli Bohnen, right, leads a seder service in Dahn, Germany in March ’45
Ahawah Children’s home in Berlin, year unknown
Eating at the Chabad House in Nepal
‘HEARING MATTERS IN CARE’ ACHIEVES SPECTACULAR RESULTS Thanks to JDA’s Hearing Matters in Care service:
jewish deaf association
• 1,000 care staff now have accredited JDA training – and can understand and meet the needs of their residents with hearing loss. • The software used by all care staff in 3,500 care homes, has been updated to include hearing loss practices into each resident’s care plan. Staff now have the information they need to ensure the resident can communicate effectively, access information and be included in activities. Here are some of the people who, with the right equipment and support in place, are now able to interact with the people around them, have meaningful conversations with their families once again and enjoy a happier, more social later life in care.
Thanks to JDA’s Hearing Matters in Care training, older people living in care homes can now have a proper chat and a laugh with the wonderful people who care for them.
Joe is a 90 year old tech wizard! He and his lovely wife Hannah live in the same care home. When his hearing deteriorated, he came up with a ingenouis way to converse, using voice recognition captions on his ipad, Hannah would talk to him and he would read what she was saying. It worked, but it couldn’t compare with hearing her voice and having a proper chat. So Joe was very excited when we presented him with a Mino personal amplifier. He put on the headphones and his eyes lit up as Hannah whispered “hello sweetheart” into the microphone. “I feel like you’ve given me back my wife!” he cried.
Caroline: “Family times used to feel so special. But when my hearing went, I had no idea what everyone was talking about and felt very alone. Then I got this lovely piece of equipment from JDA! I can hear more clearly now and it’s wonderful to be able to chat again…all five generations of us! At 102, I have a lot to talk about. Nothing could be more precious – it’s given me back my family.”
Helen told us: “I heard my son clearly for the first time in years.
Sammy is a Holocaust survivor. He was so angry and aggressive that he would hit out at and kick anyone who approached him.
Then he passed the microphone to my great granddaughter Chloe. I had never heard the sweet sound of her voice before! It was like hearing music.”
Once he tried out the Mino, staff saw him smile for the first time and his violent episodes ceased.
r o f u o y k n Tha ! t r o p p u s r u o y Please make a donation to JDA today so we can keep making such amazing things happen.
020 8446 0502 | www.jdeaf.org.uk Registered Charity No. 1105845
Beit Halochem UK
Improving lives since 2012
As we celebrate the 10 year anniversary of the establishment of Beit Halochem UK, we are proud that the charity has helped support over 51,000 IDF injured veterans, victims of terror and their families. Together we have raised more than £20 million. With your continued support, we are confiden that we will be able to provide the help that Israel’s disabled veterans deserve, even during these unsettled times.
To learn more about the charity please visit
www.bhuk.org
FOOD
DON’T PASS OVER
the plate
Alex Galbinski finds two recipes that make use of some of the focal point ingredients on the seder plate
Potato Salad with Dill & Horseradish (serves 4) Not only is this salad beautiful, with the multi-coloured heirloom tomatoes, sugarsnap peas, potatoes and dill scattered all over, it is also packed with flavour and acidity from freshly-grated horseradish and apple cider vinegar. It’s one of our favourite summer salads. We often have this as a side dish at barbeque parties.
Ingredients
1kg (2lb 3oz) small new potatoes 15–20 small heirloom tomatoes, halved 200g (7oz/2 cups) fresh sugarsnap peas, sliced lengthwise 1 large handful of dill, coarsely chopped
DRESSING 2.5cm (1in) fresh horseradish, grated 2–3 tbsp apple cider vinegar 2–3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil sea salt and freshly-ground pepper
Citrus Salad With Red Endive, Avocado, Dates, And Olives (serves 4-6)
Place the potatoes in a saucepan with just enough cold salted water to cover. Bring to a boil then reduce to simmer for 15 minutes.
This salad is a symphony of flavors and textures, as any good salad should be. The dressing, which is almost a relish, has bits of salty olives and jammy sweet dates vying for your attention. Played against the slightly bitter and crunchy endive, juicy sweet-tart citrus, and creamy avocado, it truly sings, and is an absolutely perfect thing to brighten up the doldrums. I love the way red endive looks in this salad, but if you can’t find it, white Belgian endive will be fine. Place the endive (whether it is red or white) in a bowl of ice water for at least 10 minutes before assembling the salad to crisp it up.
Test witha small sharp knife – when the potatoes fall off the knife they are done. Drain and set aside to cool.
Ingredients
Directions
Meanwhile, prepare the tomatoes, sugar peas and dill and place in a large serving bowl. Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a small bowl. When the potatoes are cold place them in the serving bowl, pour the dressing over and toss with your hands so everything is coated. Serve. Extracted from The Green Kitchen by David Frenkiel and Luise Vindahl. Photograpy ©David Frenkiel. Published by Hardie Grant, RRP £15.
2 blood oranges 1 orange 1 tangelo (or use a tangerine/orange) 2 Medjool dates, pitted and finely chopped ½ cup pitted black oil-cured olives, finely chopped 1 small shallot, minced ¼ cup finely chopped fresh Italian parsley 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Zest of 1 orange 1 tablespoon citrus juice (from the fruit) Freshly-ground black pepper 2 heads Belgian endive, preferably red, petals separated 1 ripe avocado, pitted and sliced ¼ cup toasted walnuts Flaky sea salt
Directions
Zest one of the oranges into a small bowl. Peel all of the citrus, removing all of the white pith. Cut some of the fruit into wheels and supreme the others (cut the sections of fruit out, leaving the membrane and pith behind). Remove any seeds. Set aside. To the bowl with the zest, add the dates, olives, shallot, parsley, vinegar, oil, orange zest and citrus juice and season with pepper. Spread out the endive petals in a large, shallow serving bowl. Arrange the avocado over the endive and spread the citrus over the top. Spoon half of the date mixture over the top and sprinkle with the walnuts and some flaky salt and pepper. Serve the remaining date mixture on the side. TIMING TIPS: • Up to one day ahead: make the dressing; store in the fridge. • Up to a few hours before: prep the citrus and endive; toast the walnuts. • At the last minute: cut up the avocado and assemble the salad. Reprinted and adapted with permission from Open Kitchen: Inspired Food for Casual Gatherings by Susan Spungen, © 2020. Published by Avery, RRP £29.99. LIFE jewishnews.co.uk 31
CULINARY DELIGHTS
FOODIE RAMBLE Bread, coffee, restaurants and Michelin stars. Louisa Walters dishes up everything you need to know about eating well this spring
Korto Grilled lemon and turmetic marinated chicken, Korto
Masalchi
Wembley has never been what you might call ‘on the map’ for dining, and a trip to the footie, a concert or even the new Troubadour Theatre brings to mind hot dogs, burgers or going hungry. Not any more. Atul Kochhar, who has gone from being the one to watch on the Indian dining scene to being the one to beat (two Michelin stars and counting), has opened a large, bright, boldly-decorated 120-cover restaurant in the newly-developed Wembley Park Boulevard right on the corner of Wembley Way. Masalchi means spice master and, with a focus on street food, it certainly celebrates spice! I prefer mine on the
Chicken 65, Masalchi 32 LIFE jewishnews.co.uk
milder side and there was plenty to keep me happy, including aloo papdi chaat, grilled lamb chops, beetroot and pine nut croquettes and a deliciously squidgy peshwari naan. I was also brave enough to hot things up a little with smoked aubergine chokha, and chicken 65 and chicken hyderabadi biryani, balanced out by a delicious dhal. ‘Atul’s Favourite Martini’ with vodka and passion fruit chutney is now also mine. www.masalchi.co.uk Here’s a find so cute and fab I almost don’t want to share! Korto is a breakfast/ brunch/ lunch café in Muswell Hill (in Alexandra Park Road, which is not the ‘main’ bit so it’s easy to keep secret!). Those of you who watched the Motherland series on BBC2 might recognise it as the place where the mums (and one dad) used to meet up every day after school drop off. Chef Paul and city finance expert Russell combined their skills to open this bright, rustic
neighbourhood café in 2018, serving great coffee and fresh Mediterranean food with lots of vegan, veggie and glutenfree options. Even though it is only open until 3pm, there’s also a good choice of wines and beers. I had a superb shakshuka laden with crumbly feta, but had major food envy when my friend’s grilled chicken with squash caponata arrived. She was nice enough to share the phenomenal sweet potato fries. There are lots of eggy dishes on the breakfast menu, plus porridge and great waffles. www.korto.co.uk Korto is also home to Fireheart Coffee, a seasonal coffee roasting subscription service founded in April 2020 by Paul, Russell and Thomas, a coffee aficionado whom they met at the London Coffee Festival. ‘In season’ fresh coffee is hand-roasted on site in a magnificent machine built in Israel (“The finest piece of coffee-related tech on the market,” according to Thomas) and posted direct to coffee drinkers so they can create barista-style coffee at home. Naturally, this superb coffee is also served in the café, and Fireheart runs a coffee activity once a month, giving coffee drinkers the chance to roast
Korto
beauty and its food, and express all of that in one pita.” He did it in New York, too, creating the rather unkosher ‘folded cheeseburger’. I’m excited to see what the flavours of London will be. Fireheart Coffee
and package up their own coffee. It’s a great experience and really informative. Did you know that coffee beans are green before they are roasted, or that they have seasons, just like fruit and veg, or even that they are graded a bit like wine in terms of sweetness and acidity? Me neither! www.fireheartcoffee.com
Miznon
Miznon, Eyal Shani’s Israeli restaurant group that fills its fluffy pita with the flavours of the city it is in, is planning to open a London restaurant. Best known in Europe for its first Paris restaurant, Shani’s MO is “to take whole cities and translate them into one pita. So, in this case, to take Paris’ energies, its groove, its longings, its limitations, its
If you’ve got too much to do for the seder, there’s one job you can pass to the kids. Kisharon has put together a children’s charoset recipe box that contains ground walnuts, sugar, cinnamon and Kiddush wine and includes a new kosher for Pesach dish to use – just add grated or chopped apple. It’s packed by the students at the Kisharon College, who measured out all the ingredients and packed the gifts themselves. There’s a recipe card with details on the story behind charoset and children can read it out at the seder to teach the adults a thing or two! The kit is £10 from Equal, Kisharon Gift & Homeware Store, 818 Finchley Road, Temple Fortune, London NW11 6XL
Kisharon
hemp, to cured mackerel infused with pine broth, brill with seaweed and sea leeks, to chocolate tart with the most divine Heilala vanilla ice cream, every mouthful was enjoyed and there was zero waste from us too. www.warehouselondon.com
Tapas at Cacao Bean Restaurant and Café
Over lockdown, we all discovered the joy of ordering in and subscription services saw a massive uptake in registrations. Essential luxury might be an oxymoron, but good bread falls into that category – and to have it delivered to the doorstep every week is the ultimate. French-born Emily Caron launched Good In Bread in June 2020 to share her passion for freshly-baked goods and, true to French form, the loaves are delivered by
Good In Bread
bicycle across London. Good In Bread specialises in superior sourdough that claims to be ‘better’ for you and easier to digest than other varieties. It’s certainly not better for my waistline as it’s extremely hard to stop at one slice! A third larger than standard store-bought equivalents, the loaves are baked in north-west London and then sliced to post through a standard letterbox or delivered unsliced in a loafsized parcel. The Hearty Loaf, which is made from soaked overnight oats is nutritious and decadent, while the seeded Eat Pray Loaf is full of Omega 3s. The simple white sourdough is
pure joy, and beautiful buttery brioche rolls and large chewy bagels are worth trying too. Get your subscription lined up now to get a loaf delivered as soon as Pesach goes out! www.wearegoodinbread.com When I booked into a zerowaste restaurant, I wasn’t at all sure what to expect, says Angie Jacobs. I thought it would be all potato peel soup, hoppy ale and swinging your pants, but Warehouse in Covent Garden (in a converted fruit and veg warehouse) is far from the hippy gig I imagined. It is sophisticated without being stuffy, bright and comfortable and the food is incredible, put together by cheerful chefs who you can watch from your table. Some of the menu was a little challenging for my meagre vocabulary, but the staff were only too happy to talk us through the menu, sharing that the chefs were so creative and innovative that they also had to have lessons on the oft-changing menu. Happily, my appetite and thirst are better than my vocabulary and we worked our way through every course. From superb cocktails and deep-fried pumpkin skins with ricotta
Who doesn’t enjoy eating tapas al fresco on a warm summer night, asks Brigit Grant. Or on a spring night with the doors ajar? Now add tuna tataki with a crispy radish salad or spiced burnt cauliflower with tahini and toasted pistachio to that image and picture yourself eating these tasteladen dishes on Leeming Road WD6. Borehamwood is an unlikely location for a great tapas restaurant, but that’s what caterer Kushan Marthelis has brought to the neighbourhood with his increasingly popular Cacao Bean Restaurant and Café. A seasonal revamp of the midweek tapas menu has added dishes such as potato tempered with coriander and crispy onion and a tantalising spinach and chickpea coconut curry plus the wines to accompany, which are explained as they are poured. So with your applewood smoked BBQ short ribs and strawberry Eton mess, you’ll acquire sommelier expertise. The tapas menu is available Tuesday to Thursday evenings, but you’ll need to book as Leeming Road is fast becoming the new Mayfair for astute diners. www. cacaobeanrestaurant.co.uk
One Singular Sensation After eating at Noma in Copenhagen, the late great AA Gill wrote of having had a ‘palate-tattooing dinner’. You don’t need to go as far as Denmark. There’s similarly indelible dégustation in the village of Great Milton in Oxfordshire. Just as we all should eat our five fruit or veg a day so, too, should we all eat at least one truly worldclass dinner in our lifetime, and the Cristiano Ronaldo of the culinary world is but a 55-minute drive from Golders Green. Going now feels like going deep into extra time, long after the 90 minutes is up, because the wielder of its two long-held Michelin stars – Raymond Blanc – only narrowly survived Covid. After a month in hospital on oxygen, he is now back in the kitchen, yet very nearly wasn’t. Sadly, his beloved mother – Maman Blanc, in later years even more famous than he – did not survive the pandemic, passing aged 97. It is to her that he dedicates much of his cooking, so it is to her that we give thanks as we tuck in. These days, Mrs O eats for two. Our visit was delayed by three months to let the morning sickness pass. Over seven courses, baby-to-be got the best introduction to the wonder and variety that is food. See – already good parents. Seasonality is central here, hence the name: Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons. Even the cheese that a sharp-suited bow-tied server unveiled, unwrapped, fondled, dangled, then finally dropped into our cups of French onion soup is seasonal, a meltingly good Vacherin Mont d’Or only available for a few months of the year. The changing bounty of the seasons still acts as the menu’s creative director, with Le Manoir’s gardens its chief supplier. Many a dish has a carbon footprint of about 30 feet. A highlight course – truffled hen’s egg with wild mushroom tea (yes, tea…) – owes its success in part to the morels, shiitake, and wood blewit oft to be found in the hotel’s shaded mushroom valley. This, in part, is why people pay what they pay to stay and eat here, and what turns it from a ‘dinner’ into an ‘experience’. Twelve hours after the three-hour seven-course tasting lesson, en route to breakfast, you wander past the bronze sculptures alive in midmorning light to survey the herb borders, potager and vegetable beds from whence last night’s dishes came. For guests like us who want to unwind, the Japanese Tea Garden proved a first-rate heart-rate lowerer, just as the bench by the water was the perfect place to discuss our new palate tattoos. Did we really just eat and enjoy a dessert comprising chocolate, soft caramel, and parsnip? Wasn’t that coconut and ginger the perfect eulogy to that Cornish turbot? And do you think we could recreate that blood orange carpaccio at home? No, we couldn’t. Not in a million Sundays. Even if we got close, it wouldn’t have the magic. Credit to Belmond Hotels and Monsieur Blanc for taking those classic ingredients – luxury, tradition, charm, atmosphere, flair and passion – to create the perfect dish. Stephen Oryszczuk
Warehouse
Chocolate tart, Warehouse LIFE jewishnews.co.uk 33
[N]
SP LUNCHTIECIAL ME OFFE * ANY 12” W R
PIZZ
M O D E R N
I T A L I A N
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OOD A PL US A -FIRED DRIN K*
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FEB2 Y TU 2 ES *SOF TO FRI 12.00 T DR GLAS INK, BEE -14.30PM R S OF WINE OR
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24 SHENLEY ROAD, BOREHAMWOOD, WD6 1DR TEL: 020 8953 0470 web: www.paolositaliankitchen.co.uk email: eat@paolositaliankitchen.co.uk
JEWISH NEWS: PAOLO’S ITALIAN KITCHEN FEB22
[N]
W I S H ING ALL O UR CUS TO MERS A
Happy and Healthy Passover FROM AL L THE TEAM AT
contemporary turkish cuisine
FINCHLEY
020 8371 8282
Untitled-15 1
WHETSTONE 020 8445 2196
EDGWARE
020 8951 4460
HATCH END
020 8421 1525
01/04/2022 2:56 pm
HERE’S ROCCO With TV’s favourite legal eagle Robert Rinder as his owner, French Bulldog Rocco is ready to unleash... For those of you who have not read my column in the main paper, I am Rocco Rinder, the French bulldog, with a very close association to a well-known celebrity judge. As my owner speaks Russian, he was keen to help and report on the devastating exodus of Ukrainians with their beloved pets to safety in Poland. That he was also able to locate the family of his former Strictly dance partner, Oksana Platero, was wonderful, and their seven-day journey to flee the invasion was a sobering thought. To see children and animals in the arms of their loved ones being forced to find refuge in other countries makes me realise how fortunate I am. I hope people will continue to donate to www.worldjewishrelief.org to bolster aid and www.rspca.org.uk, which helps abandoned animals. On a lighter note (which is why I am here), I wanted to mention Crufts and the Bafta TV awards, which I watched while the Judge was away. Flat-coated retriever Baxer was the ‘best in show’ and a worthy winner at a ceremony that saw no political sniping by the poodles or personal agendas from the Pomeranians. Crufts was also spared an under-garment throwing host, but had Waffle ‘utility’ winner Waffle, the toy poodle, to provide laughter as he took a leak on the green parade. Well, when you need to go…… Finally, remember to keep an eye on your retriever when you hide the afikomen this Passover. Chag Sameach to all, Rebel Wilson at the Baftas
XOXO
Love
Rocco
Once you get a pet, they become an intrinsic part of your family and earn a place on the greeting cards you send. Make it all about them with personalised ones, which www.cardgnome.com have done for Passover, and you can, too, for New Year come September.
LABRADOR JOIE DE VIVRE Meet Charlie, the 109-year-old Labrador, who still takes long walks in the Arkley countryside. FYI a dog’s ageing amounts to 15 human years in the first year, nine in the second, and five years to every human year after that, so no dog is better placed than 16½-year-old Charlie to share the secret of longevity. Charlie was 10 months old when he joined the Kleinman family, and his loud bark as a guard dog belied his sweet nature. His adopted mother, Michele, has kept him on a diet of top-quality kibble, chicken and smoked salmon and says the 60-minute walks made him fit enough to later cope with a huge back operation. Now living with an untreatable cancer, Charlie has proved he’s a fighter and, on the vet’s recommendation, gets more cuddles and treats than ever. Somewhat of a local legend among fellow dog walkers, drivers hoot when they see him. It’s only right that when he turns 110 on 1 October, the Queen’s corgis send a telegram.
Canine à la carte
Anyone with a pup probably thinks twice about dining out without them. Suppers aren’t nearly as relaxed when you know the soulful-eyed furry one is at home. So why not reduce the guilt and take them with you to places that host the four-legged? Start by consulting thefourleggedfoodies.com, which is run by Archie, the canine equivalent of food critic Jay Rayner. Dining in fab places with owner Gaynor, it was Archie who told us about No. Fifty Cheyne in Chelsea, where dogs cavort with SW3’s cognoscenti in an elegant former pub festooned with flowers, art and chandeliers. On bi-monthly Sundays, The Parlour at The Great Scotland Yard Hotel offers the Talula Eats £25 dog menu of organic meat, vegetables and a pink peony ‘pupcake’ served on china bowls. And for Tel Aviv-inspired al fresco, the Chameleon in Marylebone welcomes dogs to a weekend brunch prepared by Israeli chef Elior Balbul and both you and the pup can visit the gallery.
COMFY CREATURE Don’t be surprised if the extra ‘person’ at your seder this Passover doesn’t know the Ma Nishtana, but he/she still deserves a place at the table. Raise them up where they belong on a super stylish padded dining-room chair from www.viadurini.co.uk. Italians do it better, even for dogs. LIFE jewishnews.co.uk 35
Lloyd Platt & Company Family Law Solicitors Best Wishes for a Happy Passover We are pleased to help with all forms of Family Law including:
• Divorce
• Pre/Post - Nuptial Agreements • Cohabitation Agreements • Domestic Violence • Children’s cases • Grandparents’ rights to see grandchildren • Pet disputes • Settlements for Cohabitees • Financial Settlement on Divorce • Family disputes To make an appointment please telephone 020
8343 2998
Lloyd Platt & Company, Third Floor, Elscot House, Arcadia Avenue, London N3 2JU Website: www.divorcesolicitors.com Email: lloydplatt@divorcesolicitors.com Regulated and authorised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority
INTERVIEW
CARBON:
A girl’s best friend
DEBBIE COLLINS DELVES INTO THE HISTORY AND LONG-LASTING APPEAL OF DIAMONDS AND DISCOVERS JEWISH NAMES ATTACHED TO SOME BIG STONES
S
HIRLEY Bassey has been telling us since 1971 that ‘diamonds are forever’ and the lady does seem to have a point. There is a huge fascination with these sparkly gems that start their journey as a simple bit of carbon beneath the Earth’s mantle. In March, to satiate our need for precious stones, Dreweatts Auctioneers hosted the modern jewellery collection of Lady Victoria de Rothschild (1949-2021), second wife of British banker Sir Evelyn de Rothschild. Originally from Frankfurt, the Rothschilds were a wealthy Ashkenazi family that thrived during the 19th century, said to possess the largest private fortune in the world. Although the wealth did eventually decline, the name is still synonymous with wealth, fine art and business.
Lady Victoria de Rothschild
certainly have their market, there With more connections than is much to be said for classic, deepSt Pancras station, Lady Victoria grew coloured stones, with arguably one an impressive personal collection of of the most famous being Princess art, furniture, and indeed jewellery. She Diana’s ring. championed modern jewellery design Worn constantly throughout and enjoyed supporting up and her marriage to Charles, the coming designers, but sadly died iconic engagement ring featuring last year in January 2021, aged 71. This auction showcases her a magnificent 12-carat oval blue sapphire surrounded by 14 solitaire impeccable taste, with auction diamonds, was remodelled and highlights including a goldpresented by Prince William to Kate coloured disc necklace and a upon his proposal. That it was actually Boucheron pink sapphire and Prince Harry who inherited the ring ruby ring. and gave it up so his bro could propose Coloured diamonds are always has probably been forgotten by both of big on appeal owing to their rarity them, but Meghan will remember as she and the fact that no two are ever quite got Diana’s butterfly earrings, tennis the same. From the Disney magic of the bracelet and numerous other pieces, but Seven Dwarfs (of Snow White) hinot the sapphire! hoing daily to the diamond mines, these Moving from real royalty to red rainbow-coloured stones are what fairycarpet royalty, there is one star who tale engagements are made of. Often Bethenny Frankel shines brighter than all others: the stone of choice for celebrity couples, Elizabeth Taylor. it’s no wonder Blake Lively said ‘yes’ to The ‘Elizabeth Taylor diamond’, Ryan Reynold’s $2 million pink diamond formerly known as the ‘Krupp diamond’, engagement ring. (Although I think which was named after its previous most women – and many men – would owner, Vera Krupp of the Krupp have said yes to him even if he family, who had supplied presented them with the Nazis with arms a cubic zirconia.) during the war. In the world of Tainted history celebrity, and doesn’t get in certainly in the the way of a $1.5 show-all world million purchase, of social media, which is what everything must be Richard Burton is bigger, better and believed to have paid one-of-a-kind for ‘likes for the 33.19-carat and shares’. diamond in 1968. Whether it’s a customPerhaps marrying a Jewish built car or a superyacht with Elizabeth Taylor wears woman (Taylor converted an indoor tennis court, Nick to Judaism in 1959 to Cannon certainly came through the Krupp diamond marry Eddie Fisher) pushed on the ‘go big or go home’ Burton towards a big diamond cut promise when he presented Mariah by American Jewish luxury jeweller Carey with a £2.5 million 17-carat Harry Winston, which must’ve emerald-cut pink diamond, surrounded been Paul Bernon’s thinking when by 58 pink diamonds. Princess Diana the real estate developer presented And while pastel-coloured diamonds
Blake Lively with Ryan Reynolds
Mariah Carey
The Duchess of Ca
mbridge
LIFE jewishnews.co.uk 37
Sandy Talbot and her daughter Orly h Nicola Brooklyn Beckham wit Laurence Graff entrepreneur and former Real Housewife Bethenny Frankel Whether you choose to respect the with one large emerald-cut diamond traditional style, modernise it to your surrounded by two smaller ones – worth taste or remodel it into something more an estimated $3million. wearable, jewellery is highly adaptable That the press immediately bring in in the hands of a master goldsmith. As the diamond experts to put a price tag is often the case of ‘one diamond ring, on the ring must put real pressure on three granddaughters’, many jewellers a celebrity groom who doesn’t want work to keep all siblings happy, by to be painted as a schnorrer, but with creating three individual pieces. the bar set so high, Brooklyn Beckham And, often, those keeping so many knew what to expect when The Mirror Jewish women happy these days are valued his ring for fiancée Nicola Peltz Jewish jewellers themselves, such as the at £350,000, a figure they equated to a revered Laurence Graff, who founded five bedroom semi-detached house in Graff Diamonds in 1960. By 1962, Manchester. The spend so far on their he had two shops, the first one in the upcoming wedding (9 April) might have famous jewellery quarter of Hatton boosted Brooklyn’s ring ranking, were Garden. His business grew steadily and, it not being held at the home of Peltz’s by 1974, he was regularly dealing with billionaire father Nelson’s 27-bedroom clients including the Sultan of Brunei Florida estate. Just as it should be. and today has more than 35 shops across While we can’t all benefit from Royal Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East or celebrity heirlooms, there is such and the US. wonderful sentimentality from receiving Of course, you can’t mention diamonds jewellery from generations before you. without highlighting London jeweller Even the simplest pair of diamond studs David Morris, who founded his company can make you feel like a princess and in 1962. This British luxury jeweller was reconnect you with your family history. famous for designing, crafting, and selling However, just like fashion, styles of fine jewellery and watches, including jewellery diversified and certainly the 1960s brought about big change, whereby set pieces for James Bond films and for creating the iconic 1972 Miss World young women wanted something a little crown. David’s son Jeremy took over in more ‘fun’ to reflect their personalities as opposed to their grandmother’s. 2003 and the family legacy continues. But of all the international locations of the most elite diamond stores, there’s one location that shines as one of the largest and most sophisticated diamond centres in the world – Israel. Home of the ‘IDE’, the Israeli Diamond Exchange centre was established in 1937 and has around 3,000 members engaged
Diamonds from Harry Winston
38 LIFE jewishnews.co.uk
A Little Gem
A David Morris ring
in manufacturing, import and export and marketing of rough and polished diamonds. All under one roof, 15,000 people pass through the IDE each day, which is like a giant supermarket of diamonds. Sealing a deal with the words mazal u’bracha (luck and blessing), this has now been adopted by diamond dealers worldwide and some might even have travelled to Jewellery Cave in Finchley. Owner Jonathan Williams has produced the finest wedding rings for nearly every major jeweller in the country and now sells a beautiful collection of jewellery, including the spectacular diamonds in the Antwerp Collection and wedding rings set with diamonds that will go very nicely with the engagement ring. It’s too late for Brooklyn to visit, but not for his brothers.
Jewellery Cave in Finchley sells wedding rings set with diamonds
You won’t need security for a piece of ORLI JEWELLERY, but isn’t that a blessing? Orli belongs to Scotland-based Sandra (Sandy) Talbot, a self-described entrepreneur and mumof-four, who has worked in a range of industries from beauty to travel. But after time as a jewellery distributor, she decided to launch her own collection. And it has been a success. Working from the spare bedroom of her Glasgow home, she would design and assemble pieces to be sold at high-street shops across the UK. Soon the business grew and now, Orli Jewellery – named for her daughter Orly – has marked its 11th birthday. Sold by 150 stockists, the designer and company founder says she is keen to continue supporting the high street. “Retail is really important to us, because it was the shops that started us,” explains Sandy. “I have never lost touch with my original shops, and even though the internet is great, the high street is important. “People still want customer service and to see something in their hand before they buy it. That is why small independent shops are still important to us.” Known for its silver and gold selection, Orli Jewellery’s affordable range includes chunky fashion jewellery and more ‘dainty’ pieces with semi-precious stones – all of it designed and assembled at the Glasgow studio. With trends ever-changing, Sandy has seen increased demand for personalisation. “People want everything personalised, from initials on a handbag to wedding bouquet charms and their children’s names on their jewellery.” And Sandy, a member of Giffnock Newton Mearns Hebrew Congregation, still visits the studio regularly, even assembling the jewellery herself – while Orly works from her home in Israel. “I have always had a passion for making my own jewellery,” adds Sandy, who has two grandchildren. “I was always creative – I just didn’t have the opportunity to apply it until I was older.”
Here at Jewellery Cave in Hendon Lane Finchley,we design, make and sell any jewellery that you may be looking for, from solitaire engagement rings to diamond eternity rings, or any coloured stone jewellery, to personalised jewellery. Literally, there is nothing we don’t or can’t do! We also have an amazing pre loved jewellery, silverware, and vintage watch section. Plus we undertake jewellery, watch repairs and pearl stringing. If you are looking to buy or sell gold coins, bars, or just old gold, we have our own in- house bullion buying department. You are more than welcome to visit our showroom, and whatever your need, we are ready to assist! With 42 years in the jewellery and diamond trade, we have all the experience for anything you want.
Jewellery Cave Ltd, 48b Hendon Lane, London N3 1TT
T: 020 8446 8538 E: jonathan@jewellerycave.co.uk www.howcashforgold.co.uk Open Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm (anytime) and Saturday 9am to 1pm (by appointment)
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QUICK-FIX
Fashion
SLIP INTO SPRING WITH A SILKY KIMONO. INSTANT STYLE IN A SINGLE GARMENT AND THE EASIEST WAY TO LOOK SEDER-SMART AFTER COOKING
Cantaloupe jaguar kimono, £195, www.avalanadesign.co.uk
Hydrangea lightweight kimono, £59, www.frommymothers garden.co.uk
Peony kimono, £59, www.frommymothers garden.co.uk
Printed kimono pink, £60, ARTISAN STUDIO, www.monsoon.co.uk
Blown wishes mini robe, £75, www. frommymothers garden.co.uk
LIFE jewishnews.co.uk 41
10 Golders Green Road London NW11 8LL Opposite Cafe Nero
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INTERVIEW
STYLING
INTO SPRING NAOMI NAKUM SELECTS AFFORDABLE SEASONAL FASHION FROM JEWISH BRANDS With storm Eunice no longer threatening our skies and sunshine in sight, it’s about blooming time to say bye-bye blah neutrals and hello to fresh spring shades. These fabulous Jewish brands all have their finger firmly on the fashion pulse and are mostly easy on the purse too. A pleasant discovery was the overlap of SS22 trends in various brands, so I’ve mixed and matched my favourites here.
PLEATS PLEASE Although ever so slightly reminiscent of my school days, thankfully, there really are no rules for SS22. Printed, plain, colourful or monochrome, paired with knits or crop tops – as long as it’s pleated, then you’re good to go. Frum fashionistas will especially rejoice at this trend and there are plenty of options – popular Mia Mod LA has you ‘covered’ with year-round basics in fresh pastel shades as well as bolder prints. For luxe looks, Front Row by Sara and Goldy have plenty of pleated picks.
GIRLIE GIRL Pile on the pretty in these dreamy pieces. US-based Jupe is a onestop shop for affordable dresses to throw on. Mimic Little House On The Prairie with tiers, ruffles, bell sleeves and fuss galore. I’m going gaga for the rainbow of pastel hues in vogue – from egg blue to pale pinks and purples, you’ll be spoilt for choice – or wear them all, like the tiered maxi number from Something Navy by Jewfluencer Arielle Charnas. Eliya’s Label,, a relaxed LA brand offers cute paisley, patchwork and floral prints in varying lengths, while the frothy full length number from Mod Shop Ny is giving me major fairytale vibes. Instagram: @eliyasthebrand www.eliyaslabel.com
Instagram: @miamodla www.miamod.com
Instagram: @jupenyc www.jupenyc.com
Instagram: @frontrowcouture www.frontrowbysaraandgoldy.com
Instagram: @modshopny www.modshopny.com
HOT PINK PERFECTION For fans of muted tonal beiges, this one is definitely not for you! Neon pink is set to be spring/summer’s hottest hue, but if head-to-toe is too much, try the colour on a top or trousers to ease yourself into it. I’m going all-out with this bold Barbie doll dress from Adina Las Vegas, but I’m seriously coveting the bold beautiful numbers from Shop Shoshanna, a gorgeous line from Jewfluencer Shoshanna Gross, who often models her pieces on her Instagram verified page that has more than 31K followers. Her dresses are also sold at Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus – an indicator of the kind of quality you’re getting! Instagram: @adina_lv www.adinalv.com Instagram: @shopshoshanna www.shoshanna.com
ON THE FRINGE
SHEER CHUTZPAH
Cowboy style is back. Again. Just more glamorous. Fringe elements on dresses seen on Rodarte and Fendi’s runway are available at Hendon-based favourite, House of Lancry, with its ‘Margot’ dress. The black is a more sedate option, but the red is definitely ra(u)nchy! For a low-key look, pair the ‘Sienna’ skirt with a plain tee as shown (cowboy hat optional).
Dare to bare with sheer and lacey cut-out fabrics, which can also be cleverly layered to protect modesty, making this trend one of the most versatile. I’m a fan of Adina Las Vegas’ seasonappropriate ‘forest green’ frock, while Pink Orchid’s spring collection boasts a blue lace-trim number. Shop Shoshanna has loads of gorgeous lace sheer dresses and tops and for those who find it hard to depart from their trusty LBD, she has some cheeky choices with lace panels.
Instagram: @houseoflancry www. houseoflancry. com
Instagram: @pinkorchidfashion www.pinkorchidfashion.com
SHEEN DREAM Let your inner goddess shine with sheeny liquid metallics in luxe fabrics that glide over the torso. The ‘Rory’ dress from Mod Shop Ny comes in shimmery teal or lavender. Its ‘Katie’ dress in blush pink also gets my approval. Yakira Bella’s ‘Adele’ dress is befitting its superstar namesake and, if you’re after some snazzy separates, go for Blew’s glossy top and skirt. I also love the Linear Collection ‘flow Merlot’ satin dress – perfect while sipping your four cups of wine on seder night! Jupe also comes through with some bargain-priced but equally fabulous picks. My favourites are the ‘Brie’ and ‘Simone’. Instagram: @yakirabellaofficial www.yakirabella.com Instagram: @blewboutique www.shopblew.com Instagram: @linearcollection www.linearcollection.com
CANARY FLIES Yellow has been one of my favourite colours since forever because of its instant feel-good factor. I’ve always had a penchant for bright shades in particular, and SS22 more than delivers on that front. Veronica Beard dresses are a bold but elegant choice. Talking of bold, the best-selling bright shirt from Something Navy is going to become a staple in my wardrobe. Instagram: @veronicabeard www.veronicabeard.com Instagram: @somethingnavy www.somethingnavy.com
BIG BAD BAGS A fond 2008 memory was shlepping everything but the kitchen sink around in my oversized sack. I’m glad big bags are now back in, as I was never mad about the micro – too impractical for my liking. At the spring/summer 2022 shows, Loewe had soft slouchy bags of velvets and suedes, as well as traditional leather in varying pastels and bright colours. Israeli designer Sigal Levine, founder of Badass Bags, offers more affordable yet bang on trend options with rebellious twists, such as the one-of-a-kind, super soft pink leather ‘Luna Backpack Handbag’, with a beautiful cowhide panel and gunmetal snap closure. The custom hand-painted ‘Navy Rock N Roll Lip tote’ is my firm favourite, but the ‘starry night peace large limited edition tote’ most reminds me of my beloved teenage tote, just more modern. Instagram: @badassbagsbysigal www.badassbags.online
44 LIFE jewishnews.co.uk
BEAUTY
A MALE’S
EYE VIEW In a break with convention, Max Shapiro shares his wife’s spring beauty buys
I don’t know if it’s a Jewish thing, but my missus buys two of everything. This is rational when she is shelling out for curtain pole finials or his-and-her hoodies, but bottles of micellar water and loofah brushes? Not so much. Her bathroom (I keep my sanity and stuff in the shower room) makes the 28,500 sq ft flagship Boots in Covent Garden look understocked. Worse still, the duplicates are spread about so she can never find the reserve bottle. As Passover is the festival for hot flushes, a cosmetic declutter was set until the new spring beauty bounty arrived …
HOME BAKING
SMELLS SO GOOD
Tan maintenance is my wife’s obsession. Without a tan, she looks like Wednesday Addams (her words), so there are multiple half-used sprays of chestnut finish needing to be chucked. The arrival of Ioniq One (£299)) might spur that on. The Ioniq One is not a Marvel Avenger, but a handheld device that uses ionisation, magnetic skin technology to spray a mist of high-quality fake tan across the skin. Even I was impressed when I saw how the German-made wand distributes a mist of electro-magnetic ions across the skin. It sounds technical, but gives my wife the wraparound effect she pays for in salons and reaches backs and shoulders. I could hear her screaming “no streaks” as the shade developed and without a nasty fake tan smell. It smells like perfume, and has nourishing oils and vitamin E added. Turns out the Ioniq One is an innovation by Wagner, who provides the coating for Ikea furniture, so the tan lasts. The wand can also be used to apply its own brand sun cream, which I hate doing. Refill cartridges are £34.99, so it’s cheaper than Wednesday going to the salon.
I keep a mental note of my wife’s chosen fragrances to buy for birthdays. There are several, including Le Labo’s Santal 33, but lately Ormonde Jayne’s Osmanthus Elixir (£195) has taken the lead. Bespoke perfumier Linda Jayne has a store and lab in the Royal Arcade on Bond Street, where she blends the sort of ingredients the Israelites might have used on their exodus. The Elixir cobtains Davana, a sweet Egyptian herb, so the crisp scent is fitting and subtle to wear for a seder. On a shopping browse some days ago, she got sprayed with Montabaco Verano (£145), the new Ormonde Jayne scent that is all about leather, wood and tobacco leaf. Sounds like a gentleman’s club, but the grapefruit and cashmeran turn that smell around, and though its ambience is more Latin America than Mount Sinai, it comes in a stunning azure bottle that “would look lovely” on her crowded vanity table. I’ve got the hint. www.ormondejayne.com
FIX A FELLA
EYES SAID SO I’ve already mentioned the clutter, but it keeps growing because there’s always a new cream. Odile Paris OR, j’etincelle Flash Eye Lift (£45) is the eye gel that’s “supporting my fragile eye contour”, she said, and Odile Lecoin, the facialist who created it, was once the best-kept secret in Paris. Now my missus has found the gel that improves fine lines and reduces wrinkle depth by 20 percent, everyone knows about it. www.odile.co.uk
Do you love beauty products and potions? Then keep an eye on Jewish News’ website as we will be running beauty competitions and giveaways. Drop me a line to let us know what you would like to see reviewed: brigit@jewishnews.co.uk
HAIR WE ARE Since the Oscar debacle, talk is all about hair. I’m not as hirsute as I was, and my wife has hairline gaps, so we looked for helpful unisex products and now we’ll never run out of shampoo. In my shower I’ve got Monat’s threestep system from its volumising range. My hair looks fuller range from using the shampoo (£31), conditioner (£40) and treatment (£55), but they say the emollient Capixyl™ it contains safeguards the scalp and supports natural growth. I’ve seen it on Amazon, but it’s available at www.monatglobal.com
Our daughter nabbed the new Fudge Clean Mint Deep Cleansing Shampoo (£14), so her follicles are feeling the benefit of the sustainable marine algae, which balances oil production and buffs away flakes. Pick it up at hair salons or at uk.fudgeprofessional.com
Meanwhile OSMO® X.POSED shampoo (£9.99) has won over the wife because it smells citrusy and the basil, thyme and mandarin are a recipe for stimulating the scalp. “My hair feels light and energised,” she said and if she’s happy… www.sallybeauty co.uk
PMD Personal Microderm (£145) is another piece of kit for my wife’s packed bathroom, but I’ve been tempted. It’s all about exfoliation at her age (and mine), and the machine looks, well, you can see, but it takes off dead skin cells removed by the vacuum and aluminium oxide crystals found in professional machines. The joy of a home kit, once again, is you can use it frequently for the price of one salon visit. It fades age spots and scars too and my skin looks very refreshed. No shame in a bloke looking after himself is there? And she says it’s done wonders for the collagen. Buy it at Harrods and uk.pmdbeauty.com A final but essential word goes to Mane UK, without which I’d be lost, so we’ve got a box of it. My wife uses it to disguise crown hair loss, but as my own is wandering towards transplant territory, I make the best of what’s left with the Hair Thickening Spray & Root Concealer (£18), which started as a hair transplant after-care product in Mane UK’s Harley Street hair clinic. Used by celebrity stylists because it blends in and boosts the barnet, the dark brown and grey shade, among a choice of 11, matches my own. You’d never know it was there and it’s saved me from a Trump comb-over. These bottles are staying for Passover. www.maneuk.com
LIFE jewishnews.co.uk 45
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Call 020 8732 6101 or email enquiries@kkl.org.uk
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“Bingo is one of the most positive things that has happened to me.” GALIT
TRANSFORMING LIVES ONE DOG AT A TIME
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How could this year be differenT from all other years? Short-term, long-term, one-off or from home, you can discover a world of volunteering opportunities at JVN that suit your lifestyle.
Start your journey now at www.jvn.org.uk 020 8203 6427 info@jvn.org.uk /JewishVolunteeringNetwork jvn_org_uk Charity no. 1130719
Registered charity no: 1188449
For people with impaired vision, IDF veterans suffering from severe trauma, and children learning to live with autism. But this can only happen with your support. To create more life changing partnerships, call 020 8090 3455 or go to israelguidedog.org.uk
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WANT TO HELP YOUNG PEOPLE PROGRESS IN THEIR EDUCATION?
CHARITY Olga and her family have been helped by World Jewish relief
EXODUS
Just as the Israelites moved to a better place, Jewish charities do the same for individuals every day. Here are some of their stories
A
bi, now 17, has been supported by Camp Simcha since she was diagnosed with a facial tumour when she was six. “My diagnosisww and treatment started to take over my life as my condition means I have multiple operations each year, doctor’s appointments and chronic pain from the condition, which doctors can’t relieve,” she says. “At first I tried to accept that I wouldn’t be able to do the things friends and classmates could do. I felt angry and depressed, which impacted my self-esteem and confidence. But Camp Simcha came into my life and showed me everything is possible. Anything my friends could do, I could too.” One of the most life-changing aspects for Abi was the therapeutic art sessions. “This is where my passion for art began. Together with their art teacher, Belinda, I created wonderful pieces, some of which I sold to raise money for charity. It has been a great outlet for my feelings – and really cheered me up when pain was getting me down. But mostly, it helped me gain confidence. That gave me the courage to create my Instagram page @braveartist2005. “I’ve had other great experiences with Camp Simcha, such as going on family retreats and also children’s retreats with other chronically ill kids. One of my favourite memories is standing up in front of everyone singing Let It Go from Frozen. I never thought I could go away without my family because of my health issues, but took a summer trip to its USA sister organisation and I met many other people with chronic illnesses.” Camp Simcha’s constant presence
reminded Abi she could do things. “Just in a different way, which empowered me to come out the other side of what I was going through.”
World Jewish Relief (WJR) supports the world’s poorest Jewish communities and responds to international disasters like the one ongoing in Ukraine, where it has been helping people to flee. Recently, WJR’s humanitarian team met Svetlana as she crossed into Moldova with her two young children. She says: “When we crossed the border, I experienced great relief. I’d been so afraid that the column of refugees could be fired upon from the Ukrainian side of the border. I was glad my parents were able to cross with me. I feel a great sense of gratitude to the people who organised the evacuation of children.” Olga Marshak, her husband and two children were helped to flee from Odesa to the Palanca border crossing into Moldova. Olga’s husband had meningitis as a child so isn’t eligible to enlist into the army; he is one of few men who have been able to flee. Taking a 15-hour coach journey from Odesa to the border under police escort, they were met at the border by WJR’s partners and transported to emergency accommodation outside Chisinau. They will shortly be leaving for Israel.
Before moving into his Jewish Blind & Disabled flat, Jason, 58, lived with family and friends and then in a B&B. Suffering from osteoarthritis and waiting for a knee
Abi has been helped by Camp Simcha
CHARITY horrendous, and I had a serious fall, which left me with an ongoing arm injury.” Calling Jewish Blind & Disabled in desperation, just five weeks later he moved into his new home and is now happy and secure. “I also come home to people I can chat to and have peace of mind knowing house managers are there if I need anything or have another fall. There’s also a minibus to take me shopping and a tenancy support team to help source donated furniture I could not afford.” Jason finally has a home with a heart.
when Tikva found him on the streets. His mother was unable to care for him and his father’s whereabouts was unknown but, with the charity’s help, he graduated from its school and, following meetings with his guidance counsellor, decided he wanted to be a cab driver because he loves meeting people. Tikva set up a driving course and he passed his test and is now a licensed cab driver. Koyla thoroughly enjoys his job, which gives him a sense of purpose, independence and security. A far cry from his start in life.
Max Altaras wanted to find a volunteering role that would enhance his Jewish values. The 18-year-old was keen to work in an outdoor environment and help the homeless. JVN (Jewish Volunteering Network) was able to connect Max with City Harvest at New Spitalfields Market. The placement has been a huge success, with the City Harvest crew declaring Max an essential part of the team. Max says he has met “some of the kindest and most sincere people, who I consider friends. I have a new insight into how the charity sector is run and the food waste that is experienced globally.” Nicky Goldman, chief executive of JVN couldn’t be more delighted. “We found Max his perfect volunteering role, which clearly enables
“There is something palpable about working in an organisation with a clear set of values like those emanating from Yad Vashem UK Foundation,” says Laurie Rosenberg, bar and batmitzvah twinning project manager at the charity. “It’s about forging links with Holocaust survivors, their families and generations to follow.” Laurie creates meaningful encounters through a project linking young people with a ‘twin’ whose life was cut short during the Holocaust. “Working at Yad Vashem UK is more than a job – it’s a privilege – and there is real joy in helping a family retrace their roots, or a
Laurie Rosenberg of Yad Vashem UK Foundation
Gabriel, 22, approached Resource in August 2020 when he was put on furlough. He was assigned a volunteer professional advisor, who discussed how to move forward with his career aspirations, including research into HR admin roles, Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development for ways to train through distance learning and producing a functional CV. When the government announced its Kickstart scheme in early 2021, Resource had a vacancy for an administrative assistant and Tikva helped Kolya Gabriel got the job. At Resource, Resource Gabriel gained valuable work experience and was a valued member of the small office team. When his six-month contract at Resource came to an end he got a permanent role. “Without the one-toone support of my advisor, the wonderful workshops and seminars, and networking Jason, a tenant at Jewish Blind opportunities that Resource offer I don’t & Disabled’s think I would have got where I am today!” Aztec House
him to live by his Jewish values and help make the world a better place.”
Tikva cares for homeless, abandoned and abused Jewish children of Ukraine and neighbouring regions of the former Soviet Union. Kolya, now 21, was six
50 LIFE jewishnews.co.uk
young person research their background and be proud of their identity. Our work helps in the mitzvah of educating about the dangers of antisemitism and is also a spiritual activity, since we help people, schools and organisations to explore their collective history and create new bonds of friendship.”
Stephen, a skilled furniture maker and respected expert in the field of antiques and philately, was living alone in the same house for most of his life. Amiable and kind-hearted, he joined KKL on a legacy mission to Israel to see for himself the work JNF UK is doing in the Negev. This was his first trip abroad and he was moved by the projects he saw and the people he met.
KKL’s Rosh Hashanah tea
When Stephen became ill and was unable to go out or to prepare meals for himself KKL’s pastoral team regularly visited him and made sure he had kosher food. They liaised with his family and accompanied him to A&E when he was taken by ambulance and was there for him until he sadly passed away. They worked together with his cousins to ensure he received a dignified funeral and Kaddish was said with a minyan. Although not all KKL clients need the level of involvement given to Stephen, the organisation is there for those who do.
Ebby always wanted to be a teacher, but found that it is hard to choose your own career path when you’re deaf. After studying business at college, she found it impossible to find work. Meanwhile, she was caring for her disabled mother. Without friends or chances to meet other deaf people, she became withdrawn, and her confidence dwindled. After eight years of struggling with depression, she found her place – on the Dcafe Volunteer Training Scheme at the JDA (Jewish Deaf Association) signing café. Now, Ebby is part of an inspirational team of unemployed deaf people, all working together to provide a popular hub for the deaf signing community.
Resource helped Gabriel
Andrew Plaskow, store manager at Equal, Kisharon’s gift and homeware shop
Ivan Sugarman is an AJEX member
Azaria is helped by Adi Negev
She has gained confidence and skills to become more employable. She has also discovered a mean talent for baking! Ebby says: “Dcafe has changed my life. It’s great to learn new skills and we love seeing customers with smiles on their faces!”
Aged five, Azaria is the youngest of nine children in a family living in Israel. He has Down’s Syndrome, epilepsy and severe cognitive delays. True to his Chabad roots, he loves a good farbrengen (get-together). As a baby, his therapy and medical needs became more apparent as the months progressed and he started rehab daycare aged one. When he was three, it was time to move to a more serious preschool programme that would cater to his needs. A school in the special needs rehab and education village Adi Negev proved to be the perfect place for him and not far from home. He has a regular preschool day, plus multiple therapies including occupational, physical, speech/eating, music and iPad communication instruction. “When he gets home from preschool, his needs have been met and we can just enjoy his company,” says his mum, Miiko. “This in itself is a gift. But to know that Azaria has got the best team at Adi Negev rooting for him to be the best Azaria possible is really a beautiful thing.”
Ivan Sugarman, 92, was a National Service Pilot Officer in the Royal Air Force in the 1950s and always attended the annual AJEX (Association of Jewish Ex-Servicemen and Women) Annual Remembrance Parade and Service in Whitehall. A friend induced him to join Right: Dcafe volunteers, including Ebby (second from back on the right), in costumes for Purim
AJEX in the late 1960s and he is still an active member. Ivan says: “The core pillars of the charity are welfare, remembrance and education. Remembrance at the AJEX events at Whitehall and the National Memorial Centre is always emotive, in that we think of the thousands of Jewish men and women who died in the service of their country. “I find it rewarding to educate students by recounting my life as an evacuee and my time in the RAF. In this way I am making a mini contribution to our society and continuing the legacy of the charity.” Ivan also shares with students details of the contribution of Jews to the Armed Forces, of whom a greater proportion
served than that of the non-Jewish population. He has received many letters that made him realise how he is benefitting so many lives.
Accountant Andrew Plaskow became a volunteer at Equal, the Kisharon gift and homeware store, when he retired. “Making a purchase here is a double Right: JVN placed Max, front right, with City Harvest
act of ‘social enterprise’ kindness,” he says. “You’re buying a gift and, because a team of volunteers keep running costs low, the profits support the social enterprises at Kisharon, which offer education, opportunity and support for people with learning disabilities and their families.” During the pandemic, Andrew set up virtual tours of the shelves on FaceTime so shoppers could browse from home. Andrew and his team adapted stock as people were entertaining differently and buying habits changed. The stock now includes more inexpensive and smaller items. With Pesach round the corner and people back in the store, there is now the perfect mix available. “I have found a worthwhile way to enjoy my retirement, by becoming part of Kisharon, which enables children and young people to achieve their potential,” says Andrew.
wish to thank all their clients and friends for their continued support on this momentous milestone.
1972
2022
THANK YOU DAVID SEGEL
Managing Director
“ The holiday was a dream from start to finish.” MRS SILVER, LONDON
Bespoke travel itineraries to various destinations around the world created just for you. Rest assured, knowing you will have access to good quality kosher meals for the duration of your trip. A dedicated team of travel experts, are themselves passionate and experienced kosher travellers, will ensure you receive the best service throughout your holiday.
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ISRAEL
LOUISA WALTERS FEELS AT HOME IN A EUROPEAN-STYLE HOTEL IN TEL AVIV he flavours of the Middle East have been slowly propagating across the restaurant scene in Europe, and now Europe has spread its tendrils into Tel Aviv. Away from the tayelet (promenade), there is another aspect to the city – narrow streets with town houses, Shoreditch-type enclaves with independent boutiques and art galleries, Soho-style districts with cafés and restaurants and, scattered among them, a growing number of boutique hotels that are a world away from the high-rise big chain options on the seafront. To walk into The Norman on Nachmani Street in the White City district is to be transported to 1920s Europe. Having acquired two historic buildings, owner Jonathan Lourie embarked on a restoration that sympathetically preserved the antique heritage while installing the comforts and technologies that 21st century travellers have come to expect at a hotel of this calibre. So high-ceilinged bedrooms have Nespresso machines and curtains that close at the press of a button, while handpainted bathroom tiles are the background to rain showers and own-brand toiletries. Jonathan’s final flourish was to name the hotel after his film-maker father, Norman. The sunny Parisian-style terrace is full of holidaymakers, locals and business people eating and drinking throughout the day. Quieter but no less enticing is The Library Bar. Wall panelling, leather seats in British racing green, crystal glasses and coffeetable books render this every inch a London-type space; ceiling fans are perhaps the only giveaway that we are in the warm climes of the Middle East and not the rain-soaked streets of W1. There’s often an informal meeting taking place in the conservatory lounge overlooking the walled garden at the back of the hotel. I love the informality, the buzz and the ambience. Our double-aspect room has floor-to-ceiling windows taking up two entire walls, giving us a feeling of light and space despite being in a townhouse on a narrow street. Various lighting settings (full, mood, night etc) are fun to mess around with and the incredibly soft bed sheets are all from Frette (Italian). Paperback books and a retro radio on the bedside tables and fresh flowers on an occasional table are a nice touch – it feels like home. The bathroom (shower only) is compact, but still has room for fluffy robes, fluffy towels and a magnifying mirror.
We spend a peaceful afternoon on the sundeck by the rooftop pool, accessed by a staircase near the small gym. Just high enough to be secluded and not too high to risk vertigo, this is staffed and has a small bar for drinks and light refreshments. The view is of the Tel Aviv cityscape, an eclectic mix of highrise offices, modern apartment blocks and even a huge water tower topped by a menorah. I can never get enough of the multitudinous aspects of this city.
The Norman’s whitewashed façade
Breakfast is a refined affair with a small but plentiful buffet and cooked-to-order dishes, to be enjoyed inside or on the sundrenched terrace under pretty white canvas awnings. Although currently closed for renovations, renowned Japanese restaurant Dinings, which originated in London, is a Tel Aviv hotspot on the third floor, fusing Japanese izakaya dishes with modern European cuisine. A spot up at the marble counter is a front-row seat to watch the theatrical chefs as they
One of the bedrooms at the hotel, above, and the Library Bar, top
As the sun goes down, we descend to the Library Bar for cocktails, of which there is an impressive choice, plus a range of whiskies, spirits, champagnes and wines. We then make our way to Alena, a collaboration by chef duo Omer Shadmi Muller and Daniel Zur, which offers European-inspired favourites with Mediterranean and Galilean flourish. Muller and Zur take inspiration and use techniques from their global experience and fuse them with their childhood knowledge of the local landscape and ingredients, with dishes such as drum fish fillet with roasted fennel, chickpea and salsa verde and olive oil chocolate tart.
create platefuls of art to be enjoyed alongside an unrivalled selection of sake. Salmon tartare with jalapeño sauce, horseradish and cucumber caviar is a dish not to be missed. A long poem by the eponymous Norman, inscribed on an interior wall, says: ‘In the beginning, there was nothing but the murmur of the sea, sand dunes in Galilee.’ Now, in Tel Aviv, there is everything, even a boutique hotel that brings the past into the present, Europe into the Middle East and 1920s glamour into the city. Deluxe rooms from £595 per night inclusive of breakfast www.thenorman.com LIFE jewishnews.co.uk 53
WHILE COVID KEPT US AWAY, A HOST OF NEW HOTELS HAVE OPENED IN ISRAEL. HERE ARE A FEW TO CHECK OUT, WRITES DENISE LEDERMAN
THE NEGEV ▼ Desert oasis Kedma Hotel in Kibbutz Sde Boker is walking distance from the desert home of David Ben-Gurion and offers a unique Negev-inspired hospitality experience in serene tranquillity. A total of 163 rooms are built around an expansive open-air courtyard with a serene pool. Hike through the area and discover its rich history, or enjoy exhilarating jeep or dirt-bike rides, stargazing, camel riding and more. The hotel also features an authentic desert-style restaurant, a luxurious spa and fitness room.
Galei Kinneret restaurant
SEA OF GALILEE ▶ Galei Kinneret
Hotel by Saar Zafrir Design on the shores of the Sea of Gailee is a luxury 123-roomhotel. With a seamless design concept using a minimal, clean colour palette and drawing inspiration from the local, natural surroundings, the hotel blends with the natural landscape. There is an outdoor glass pool exposing ancient ruins beneath, a beach club, indoor and outdoor bars and a restaurant by Israeli chef Assaf Granit. ◀ Gomeh Hotel by Isrotel Design sits by the northwestern side of the Sea of Galilee facing the beautiful Galilee Mountains. Highstandard food, a modern design and a beach adjacent to the hotel are highlights. The hotel has 212 rooms, an outdoor pool, restaurant, gym, meeting rooms and a large outdoor deck.
HAIFA ▶ Mirabelle Plaza is at the top of Mount Carmel and is well placed for the centre of Carmel and a short drive to the lower city, the beaches and other Haifa attractions. The hotel has 100 rooms, offering high-standard hospitality with a European touch. There is a luxury event and conference venue, health club and spa, heated pool and parking. Guests are invited to enjoy a rich Israeli breakfast in the dining room, dairy dishes and desserts in the lounge bar.
▶ Sofia Sea of Galilee is
an exquisite 19th century stone house a few minutes’ walk from Tiberias city centre and the Sea of Galilee (locally named the Kinneret). Adjoining the historic building, a newly-built wing has 120 luxurious woodpanelled rooms. There is a spa with a hammam (Turkish bath), a swimming pool and three restaurants, including one on the rooftop. All offer Galilean cuisine and fine wines from Judea, the Galilee and the Golan Heights. A synagogue is under construction.
Denise Lederman has more than 30 years’ experience in retail travel and works on a freelance basis with Ultimate Destinations denise@ultimatedestinations.co.uk / tel: 07868 762515 / www.ultimatedestinations.co.uk 54 LIFE jewishnews.co.uk
No-one can hear them now...
... as their Yad Vashem UK Bar or Bat Mitzvah Twin YOU can tell their story Laurie Rosenberg, our Project Manager, will be delighted to talk to groups of young people, families, and communities, helping everyone to become engaged in this project. Please contact laurie.rosenberg@yadvashem.org.uk
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56 LIFE jewishnews.co.uk
TRAVEL
Greece LIGHTNING PART 1: Capital Gains
O
nce upon a time, the turn-down service and chocs on the pillow were the most a guest could expect by way of hotel extras. These days, those extras can be anything from a goldfish in a bowl, a rainforest shower, full-size Bulgari toiletries or a Haribo-loaded minibar. I still have my doubts about the fish and added greenery to the bowl, but all those extras were surpassed when The Foundry in Athens provided a piano. Yes, a piano, in all its shabby chic glory standing against an arty brick wall in our expansive ground-floor suite. Now I’m no Daniel Barenboim, but it was crying out to be played, so my daughter hit the keyboard while we took in the dreamy comfort mattress in the master en suite, the full-size dining table and catering-style kitchen. “Obviously we can live here,” I told my husband and, as The Foundry is a stone’s throw from Avissinias Square and the Yusurum (flea market) – named after Jewish merchants Noah and Elias Yusurum – it was meant to be. To be honest, my love for The Foundry started before I saw the piano. It began when I stood in the lobby decorated with parody movie posters and shelves of vintage magazines. The Greeks, once the most prolific publishers, have also been hit by the global decline in print, but cope by redesigning their titles or publishing new ones. To see piles of old mags for perusal warmed my heart and, with the suite being so comfortable, it was tempting to stay home. This was clearly the intention of Foundry owners Miltos Portokalis and Marios Koulouros or they wouldn’t serve a picnic basket breakfast in the glazed sunlight of the rooftop terrace. Draped by vines, the terrace has an unimpinged view of the Parthenon, so why not sit there all day eating Greek honey on irresistible bread rolls? But Psyrri beckoned, and it’s a call you can’t ignore because the historic neighbourhood is electric, having undergone the sort of regeneration seen in Shoreditch with the same historic interest and eateries. In the early 20th century, Psirri had a strong Jewish presence and the two synagogues around the corner from the official Holocaust Memorial – a minimalist sculpture of a compass-like Star of David on Evovoulou Street – attest to this. Athens’ first synagogue was purchased in 1903, but differences between Sephardic and Romaniote Jews led to a second synagogue opening a few doors down. Both synagogues still survive on Melidoni Street, but are rarely open to the general public so appointments are required if you want to visit. The aforementioned Avissinias Square is a 10-minute stroll from The Foundry, past antique emporiums, vintage boutiques and tourist shops. The area south of the square is an open-air bazaar, where collectors browse for old trinkets by day and junk seller stalls sidle for space beside fashionable bars and
restaurants at night. At the square, we picked up one of those tour buses most are reluctant to take, but are essential if you want a city’s story and this one had a good ancient history audio. I did Classics A-level, but my extra nibs were lost on the husband and daughter, who only had eyes for the Olympic Stadium (a rebuild). The bus dropped us near, but not at, the Parthenon, so there was a lot more uphill walking, which we forgot about as we arrived and an opera rehearsal was in progress at the ampitheatre. The last time I visited Athens was just before the 2004 Olympics, and the rubble and congestion have since been replaced by streamlined architecture and fewer road-works. The city also offers the kind of welcome you wish you could bottle to serve in our own town, and good Greek food eaten at a street table will always be my idea of fine dining. In the courtyard by The Foundry, we ate at Piko, where we had healthy wraps and burgers, but the waiter was so good-looking it was hard to focus on the food, although I recommend the cocktails, which were a nice touch before returning to the piano. It’s amazing how much better I can play after a Dirty Martini. www.thefoundrysuitesathens.com
PART 2: Being Jackie O
M
y first visit to Mykonos was in 1982, when the island was still a haven for gay party seekers and north-west London had yet to claim it for their hen weeks and weddings. On that visit, with friends Laura and Leanne, we shared the most basic room with a monk’s mattress and had to shimmy through a wall hole to get to an outdoor shower. To say that Mykonos has changed is an understatement, what with the likes of Lindsay Lohan setting up their own
200-euro-a-day beach clubs. But nothing and no one could rob the island of its aesthetic charm or perfect light. Arriving by boat from Piraeus, as I did in ’82 with backpacker’s soul intact, my stay this time was at the legendary Mykonos Theoxenia, which sits beside the iconic windmills. This hotel was beloved by Aristotle Onassis and his wife, Jackie O, who, like so many, fell in love with Mykonos and its sublime view of the Aegean and nearby Delos, a sacred site held to be the birthplace of Apollo. That view of Delos, the glistening sea and tiny white chapel on the rocks, is a fixture from any of the vast windows that run the length of the Theoxenia, and I could probably paint the vista from memory after so many hours on the big balcony. Eventually, the chambermaids had to shoo me out, which gave me an opportunity to ask about the room fragrance (fresh linen and citrus) and two spray bottles were kindly gifted. Am I the only person to leave with such domestic trophies? The hotel breakfast was bountiful (fruit, eggs, salmon and cheeses), setting us up for a day of getting lost in the winding alleys of Little Venice with its cute sunken shops and cocktail bars. With a 14-year-old in tow, cocktails can be tricky, but the staff at BAO’s (named after a former local pirate) were willing to create something colourfully fruity to keep her happy. There was other joy for a fashion-obsessed teen on Matoyianni Street, where unaffordable designer clothing is sold at places such as Soho Soho, which stocks labels from Alexander Wang to Victoria Beckham. With purchasing confined to friendship bracelets and peaches, I switched the shopping agenda to searching for Petros, the island’s pelican mascot, who is spotted in alleys or resting by the windmills. Several days went by and an evening that took us to Niko’s Taverna, a Mykonos institution known for its fresh fish, and the chic Townhouse, where we danced. Dancing from 5pm on Super Paradise Beach was also an option, but being whipped up into a frenzy by a DJ was more enticing in 1982, so I had a sundowner back at the Theonexia and chatted to manager Stefanos Niakas, who has worked there for years and manned the property through the pandemic. He had many tales of Jackie O (there’s a bar named in her honour) and told me the hotel was about to be renovated. It is a listed building, so only interiors will change, but I fully intend to see the reinvented Theonexia when the hotel reopens in late spring. Stefanos also told me I’d find Petros in the hotel car park, and he was right, as the soft feathered bird was there sunbathing the next morning. So our Aegean adventure delivered a Parthenon picnic, pelican petting, teen cocktails and dancing and we arrived on the island by boat. What could be more Jackie O than that? www.mykonostheoxenia.com LIFE jewishnews.co.uk 57
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ROUND-UP
Travel Extra For the places you haven’t thought about yet
nearby for guests) the vintage American car on the drive is available to hire. www.casademondo.com Further down the hill in posh Quinta Da Lago, The Four Seasons Fairways is a manicured resort with luxury villas for large families. Landscaped gardens, private pools and easy access to the many golf courses, anyone with a low handicap might want to auditon for the Four Seasons Fairways Club Competition. Lazy guests who don’t want to cook (who
You can get married at Casa De Mondo
T
he Algarve boasts 3,000 hours of sunshine a year and more than 30 golf courses. If that isn’t enough to attract Jewish tourists, you can now get help there with your application for a Portuguese passport. In 2015, Portugal offered citizenship to Sephardic Jews of Portuguese origin but, until recently, only Lisbon’s Jewish community could assist. Now after a lot of bureaucratic shenanigans, the JCA (Jewish Community of the Algarve) has become the fourth official religious entity by law and can take tedious form-filling off your hands. As the orgnisation also hosts Shabbat dinners and festivals, you can be among your own from the moment you arrive. jca.algarve@yahoo.com If it’s a haimishe welcome you’re after, then book one of three eclectic cottages at Casa De Mondo in the hills of Boliqueime. Just 25 minutes from Faro airport and within sight of the sea, House of the World (as it translates) is a rustic property with a gorgeous pool, a terrace of pomegranate and lemon trees, and a chilled vibe. Also welcoming little ones (cots are available), Casa De Mondo is close enough to the action in Albufeira, but remote enough to enjoy the sound of goat bells. The property provides breakfast, but the hosts invite guests to dinners and BBQs cooked by Michelin star chefs who just happen to be their friends. You might even get to make an authentic pastel de nata, which travellers will enjoy as much as the nearby village, where festivals happen weekly. If you like to celebrate in warmer climes, the large garden and hosts’ imagination will make it memorable fiesta. And if you want a small wedding (there are hotels
A villa at the Four Seasons Fairways resort does on holiday?) can take advantage of the onsite Vivo Bistro & Cocktail Lounge, where they also do take away but, in or out, with the menu offering such delicious plates as goats’ cheese panna cotta with fresh fig or seared sea bass with orange beurre blanc you will want to order every night. If you want to eat out without the kids, there is a babysitting service and by day a new crèche service for six-month-old babies and toddlers up to two. The revamped kids’ club caters for three- to 12-year-olds and fills days with Disney cinema afternoons, treasure hunts and private swimming lessons. Ask nicely and you can have a lesson too as the staff are very obliging. But they’re willingness to help does not extend to improving your golf handicap. www.fairwaysdirect.com
Casa De Mondo
Dubai West End Travel in Swiss Cottage and Hendon Tel Aviv has much to celebrate. Not only has it many times been awarded El Al’s agent of the year, it is celebrating 50 years in the industry. Owner David Segel says that providing a first-class service, getting to know his clients and knowing the business inside-out are key to his longevity and success. If the pandemic taught travellers anything, it’s that real people – ie travel agents – are so much better at organising journeys and sorting out problems than the internet. “Just as you would go to an accountant for financial advice and a lawyer for legal issues, why would you not go to an expert in travel when booking a trip?” asks David. “Did you know that we can often beat even the lowest flight price you can find online? What’s more, we can hold flights, hotels rooms and tours for months with no down payment; we can negotiate the most suitable rooms for you and give advice you will most definitely need when travelling in a post-pandemic world. Things do go wrong and, if you use an agent, it becomes their problem, not yours. If airlines lose baggage or cancel flights or there are delays, if your hotel room is not what was promised – that’s what we are there to resolve.” After two years of travel restrictions, frustrated travellers are throwing caution to the wind, packing their bags and jetting off. Israel is blooming and Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the hotspots. West End Travel has great deals to all of these and many more, with professional and personal service. www.westendtravel.co.uk
The vintage car at Casa De Mondo
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