High Holy Days with Dudu Fisher
'We want to uplift our members and the community at large, and what better way to do that than in song?'
Broadway star Dudu Fisher will join the Melbourne Hebrew Congregation (MHC) as lead chazan for the first in-person High Holy Day season since the pandemic.
The announcement of Fisher as the feature marquee headliner comes as part of the launch of the MHC High Holy Day program which will include a variety of initiatives and activities.
The Israeli superstar who is best known for his work on Broadway, in particular his role as Jean Valjean in the musical Les Misérables will be the chazan of the synagogue throughout the High Holy Day period, including Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.
Following a two-year absence of in-person High Holy Day services, this year brings with it a highly anticipated fortnight.
“We are incredibly excited about this year’s High Holy Days,” said MHC president Quentin Miller. “The chance to once again be in shule is something we don’t take for granted.
Fisher has been a sought-after cantor, a lead on Broadway and in the West End, and has performed for the Queen in a Royal Command Performance. He will be joined on the bimah by Aaron Max who will be chazan sheni.
Miller added, “We want to uplift our members and the community at large, and what better way to do that than in song? Dudu will add an unprecedented dimension to our services and we can’t wait.”
MHC has also announced that they will be offering non-MHC members a High Holy Day pass to attend the associated services for the price of $180.
Plans are underway for a customised youth service to be conducted at the synagogue, and a substantial first day Rosh Hashanah kiddush in the MHC foyer.
“We are working to engage the younger demographic via a dedicated service for them as well as some other initiatives behind the scenes,” Miller told The AJN, adding, “We want to deliver something truly memorable to conclude our 180th anniversary and welcome the next wonderful chapter for MHC.”
Rabbi Shlomo Nathanson echoed Miller’s enthusiasm, saying “While we work hard each week delivering our regular services, we know how important the High Holy Days are for members and the broader community and we are thrilled with the fortnight we have on offer.”
The MHC rabbi also shared his excitement to work with Dudu Fisher and Aaron Max on a “Yom Tov program that will not only inspire, but will provide a perfect and meaningful opportunity to connect”.
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