Chabad of the Conejo is inviting old and new friends (and curious viewers) around the world to tune in to its “Virtual Gala ‘22” – a variety show of nostalgia, entertainment and inspiration – to be livestreamed on Wednesday, June 15th, beginning at 7:00 pm (Pacific time).
Featuring moving visual narratives interspersed with musical appearances by some of the top names on the Jewish music scene – including Avraham Fried, Benny Friedman, 8th Day, Shulem Lemmer, Yanky Lemmer, and Joey Newcomb – the show can be accessed free of charge at www.chabadgala.com.
Also sprinkled throughout the show will be segments with Rabbi Abba Perlmutter of Chabad of Long Beach. Known for his charismatic and humorous style, Rabbi Perlmutter will be conducting a series of short interviews with interesting personalities from the Conejo community.
“In these rather confusing and disheartening times – and especially with what’s been going on in the Ukraine and Eretz Yisroel – I think that there is a clarifying, uplifting, and unifying story to be told,” said Rabbi Moshe Bryski, Executive Director of Chabad of the Conejo.
“It’s a story of the Rebbe’s vision and message of Ahavas Yisroel being dynamically played out within a burgeoning Jewish community in an unlikely suburban area between Los Angeles and S. Barbara.
“As we did last year to the delight of thousands of viewers, we will utilize modern technology and high production values to tell that story in entertaining and engaging fashion.”
Rabbi Bryski went on to say that the theme of the Gala – “Hineni – Here I am!” – is applicable on multiple spiritual and practical levels.
“Ever since the days of Avraham Avinu, Hineni has been one of the most defining words to capture the relationship between G-d and the Jewish People. Through thick and thin, we are there for each other – with immediacy and constancy…
“On a more earthly level, you might say that a similar dynamic is at play when it comes to the relationship between Chabad and the communities it serves. On one end, whenever there is a need out there, Chabad’s consistent response to people from all walks of life is, ‘Hineni – we are here for you!’ By the same token, when Chabad puts out the call for help and support, the community is there with a resounding ‘Hineni’ of its own. Among many things, Virtual Gala ’22 will be a celebration of that reciprocal spirit of caring and giving.”
Beyond its schools, youth programs, synagogues, outreach and social service programs operating out of nine regional centers, Chabad of the Conejo is perhaps best known for its flagship Conejo Jewish Academy. Situated in the organization’s headquarters in Agoura Hills, the Academy is said to have revolutionized adult education for Chabad Houses around the world.
In addition to an action-packed line-up of entertainment and colorful narratives, Virtual Gala ’22 will honor Sam and Gina Socher, residents of Agoura Hills who have made “Hineni” a central motto and focal point of their lives. It will also feature a Memorial Tribute to the late Carrie Greenberg, who touched many lives with her graciousness and hospitality before her untimely passing at the age of 63.
“If nothing else, Virtual Gala ‘22 will offer an evening of wholesome and spirited entertainment, spiced with moments of reflection and deep appreciation for the true blessings of life,” said Rabbi Bryski. “Taken a few steps further, it might just inspire folks to some very proactive ‘Hineni-style’ actions!”
Virtual Gala 2022 – “Hineni: I am Here!” – will be broadcast on Wednesday, June 15, 2022, beginning at 7 pm, via the www.chabadgala.com website. For further information, log on to the same site or call (818) 991-0991.
