Go ‘Behind the Mask’ this Purim at the LJS

7 March 2019

The Liberal Jewish Synagogue (LJS) in St John’s Wood will host a very special and different event this Purim.

Entitled ‘Behind The Mask’, and open to all members of Liberal Judaism, it will be an evening of storytelling inspired by the Book of Esther and around the theme of risk-taking and identity transformation.

The programme will begin with a text study led by student rabbi Igor Zinkov followed by a Megillah reading and supper catered by Spice Caravan, a collective of refugee women.

After dinner, guests will have the opportunity to hear four inspirational individuals share their stories. They will be:

Rabbi Indigo Jonah Raphael’s story of gender affirmation and transition.

Izzy Posen’s story of transitioning from the ultra-orthodox Jewish community to the wider Jewish community.

Dex Grodner’s story of developing and performing the art of drag.

Hilary Totterman’s story of conversion to Judaism.

The Liberal Jewish Synagogue’s Rabbi Elana Dellal said: “The climax of the Purim story details Esther finding the courage to share with Ahashverosh that she is Jewish, whilst knowing that Haman is plotting to kill the Jews of Shushan. Esther’s courage in sharing her identity with Ahashverosh saves the Jewish community.

“This event will look at the modern day equivalents of the Purim narrative, with four incredible individuals detailing their own stories of risk-taking and identity transformation.”

To attend this event, please contact Felicia Beder on rabbispa@ljs.org or 0207 432 1283. A £5 donation is requested for those attending the supper.

If you have a Purim event you’d like to advertise to the wider Liberal Judaism community, please email ebulletin@liberaljudaism.org.