Beth Jacob Congregation Takes Vaudevillian Approach to Modern Times

Beth Jacob Congregation in Mendota Heights is taking a step back into time for its annual spring fundraiser Sunday, May 15.  This year's entertainment will be provided by "Theatre of Fools: Vaudeville for the 21st Century."

The local performing troupe is the perfect choice for the multi-generational congregation, according to Joanna Lowinger, special events chair for Beth Jacob.

"Comedy appeals to all ages and this is the kind of slapstick humor that everyone can enjoy," she said. "Our members over the age of 45 can relate to it. Many remember the days of George Burns and Gracie Allen and the Marx Brothers. Those who are under 45 have seen clips of these and other vaudeville performers and know it's hilarious."

The Beth Jacob event, featuring both a silent and live auction, will have a "Silver Screen Era" theme this year, with the social hall decorated in silver and maroon.

Beginning at 6 p.m.,  guests will mingle and enjoy hors d'oeuvres and wine while bidding on silent auction items like theatre and sporting event tickets, dance lessons, artwork, gift baskets and other assorted items.

"We used to hold a sit down dinner for the spring fundraiser, but realized that a more informal event like this is easier for people to attend," said Lowinger.

Prior to the entertainment by "Theatre of Fools," there will be a live auction, which features a Florida vacation, a weekend at Lake Superior, special events and a scotch tasting party for 8-10, "always a big hit with people," added Lowinger.

Each year, the money raised during the spring event is used to fund a particular need for the synagogue.  This year, it is earmarked for major upgrades to their computer system and website improvement.

"We desperately need new computers for our office," said Louis Newman, president of Beth Jacob. "These events tend to raise somewhere in the neighborhood of $50,000, which for us is a lot of money. Our fiscal year ends on June 30, so the fundraiser comes at a good time."

In addition to funding the computer system, Lowinger said there will be a second "fund-a-need" project during the May 15 event.

"The ceiling in our social hall needs to be replaced. We've heard a lot of comments from members of our congregation about that, so we will be raising money for a ceilling as well," she said. "Rabbi (Morris) Allen had a great idea. He said we should hang signs from the ceiling during the event  that read 'make me disappear,' so that's what we plan to do."

In addition to raising money, the Beth Jacob spring fundraiser—which typically draws around 200 people—helps build community among its members.

"This is an event that everyone enjoys and one that brings people together," said Newman. "We make an effort to keep the ticket prices low so everyone can participate."

This year's fundraiser is being underwritten in part by Gary and Sue Rosenberg in memory of Gary's mother, Betty Rosenberg, who passed away earlier this year.

"We are so grateful to them for helping us," said Lowinger. "Everybody remembers Betty and it is very meaningful for us to have their financial support."

The Beth Jacob spring fundraiser is open to the public.  Tickets are $36 each. More information is available on their website at www.beth-jacob.org.