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'A vital cultural centre'

New CEO appointed at the Kadimah

"This is an exciting time for Kadimah. We are emerging from a tumultuous period for the arts sector and are looking forward to a bright future.

By Mia Gardiner February 27, 2022, 4:33 pm Edit
Rachel Chrapot.
Rachel Chrapot.

KADIMAH, the Hebrew word for ‘progress,’ and ‘moving forward’, proves to be a fitting name for the Kadimah Jewish Cultural Centre and National Library as they have just announced the appointment of a new director and CEO, Rachel Chrapot.

Formerly a lawyer, executive and educator, Chrapot takes the helm as the cultural institution celebrates 110 years of fostering Jewish culture in Melbourne and is now one of the spearhead organisations developing the Jewish Arts Quarter in Elsternwick.

Kadimah was founded in 1911 and for more than a century it has been the heart of Yiddish culture and home to the country’s largest Yiddish library and archive.

Chrapot said of her appointment, “I’m thrilled to be part of an organisation that is steeped in history and is now building on that deep experience to create innovative programs which nurture Jewish culture and community engagement.”

She added, “This is an exciting time for Kadimah. We are emerging from a tumultuous period for the arts sector and are looking forward to a bright future.

Kadimah is set for an exciting year with plans for a rich program of cultural events.

Kadimah Yiddish Theatre is staging a modern adaptation of Isaac Bashevis Singer’s classic short story, Yentl, at Arts Centre Melbourne, with performances from March 12-26.

Reflecting the organisation’s enthusiasm for Chrapot’s appointment, Kadimah president Joe Tigel said, “Not only does she bring her professional skills and experience to the role, but a great ability to communicate with our diverse community.

“As we celebrate our 110th anniversary, the Kadimah is a vital cultural centre, contributing to our modern Jewish continuity through performance, music, literature and language. Our community tells us that we feed the neshome and foster a Jewish identity that draws from both our old and new stories.”

For more information, visit kadimah.org.au.

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