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Greetings from the
Artistic Director 
If someone were to ask about the theme of the 2026 festival,  I’d have to 
say “Laughter.” After two intense years of praying for hostages, and with 
the ongoing antisemitism in our city and the terror around the world, our 
people need an escape from the stress – we need to laugh.
It wasn’t planned that way, but looking over our fantastic program, I am 
suddenly struck by how many light, uplifting, and downright funny events 
are on our calendar this year. We cover all bases with the lighthearted 
Schmaltz and Pepper, not to mention their world-class musicianship; 
the comical adventures of Tevye the milkman; charming Ladino 
superstar entertainment from Nani Vazana: hysterical entertainment 
from Yiddish blues/rock/jazz singer Riki Rose; and Daniel Cainer’s off-
the-wall, amazing one-man show, More Gefilte Fish & Chips. There will 
be laughter at all of these events.
But wait. As with everything, our laughter is always balanced and offset 
with tears. This festival will have you shedding tears of joy and heartbreak, 
nostalgia and gratitude. Each 2026 program has moments to tug at your 
heart strings.
Most notably, we are incredibly proud to bring to you the most powerful 
event of the year. Pianist and former hostage Alon Ohel, direct from Israel, 
will be on the JMW stage, playing, singing, telling his triumphant story of 
music as survival, music as healing, music as victory. Accompanied by his 
own brother on guitar, Alon will also be interviewed by AGPI’s Avi Benlolo. 
This is the evening that will change you for the better.
Enjoy planning your week.  It’s taken a brilliant team, fantastic volunteers, 
generous sponsors and donors, and overwhelming musical talent to 
bring you our 14th festival. We can’t wait for you to experience it with us!
See you at the festival!
Aliza Spiro
Artistic Director

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