Jerusalem—The deluxe Inbal Jerusalem Hotel will be offering its guests several important programs during the busy Passover holiday, namely its annual Illuminated Haggadah Fair on Mon., April 25 and lectures from noted New York Rabbi Meir Soloveichik.
The theme of the exhibit will be “Paths to Freedom: In the Haggadah, Art and Contemporary Journeys” and will focus on historical books from secular kibbutz communities around Israel. The works displayed will typify themes from the momentous times in which many of them were created: the dark years preceding and during World War II, the fight for Israel’s Independence and the period just following the establishment of the State of Israel.
The fair is being organized together with Kol HaOt, a Jerusalem-based organization that is dedicated to combining the magic of visual and performance arts with Jewish texts, ideas, history and values. The upcoming exhibit will showcase the unique kibbutz haggadahs that are beautiful, as well as share the interesting narrative from the kibbutz pioneers.
“These historic haggadahs are a testimony to their authors’ vast knowledge of Jewish sources,” said Hila Zeira-Weinstein, the curator of the exhibit. “They use biblical quotes that aren’t in the traditional haggadahs, and add original Zionist and socialist poems and content. They also take the liberty of inserting stinging parodies that reflect the frustrations and tribulations of kibbutz life.”
Visitors to the hotel will have the chance to view a variety of spectacular, colorful haggadahs created by many artists, both local and foreign. Accompanying the beautiful artwork will be the organization’s art experts and educators, who will guide the public through the masterpieces and facilitate discussion regarding the significance of the pieces. The fair will conclude with a panel discussion addressing the question “Does Freedom Equal Creativity?” with various artists participating.
Rabbi Soloveichik is a noted scholar and serves as the spiritual leader of Congregation Shearith Israel—The Spanish & Portuguese Synagogue on Manhattan’s West Side, considered to be the oldest continuously operating synagogue in New York City. He is the grandson of Aharon Soleveichik. Two years ago when he spent Passover at the hotel, his lectures drew hundreds of attendees.
“Passover is one of the busiest times of the year for us and we are pleased to offer our guests two unique programs to enhance their holiday experience with us,” said Inbal Jerusalem Hotel Vice President of Sales & Marketing Alex Herman. “In addition to these more spiritual and cultural programs, all our facilities are open and we are pleased to unfurl newly completed renovations now to all our guest rooms and suites.”
The Inbal Jerusalem Hotel is an award-winning, deluxe hotel situated in the heart of Jerusalem overlooking the Old City walls, and minutes away from all the major cultural and historical sites. With its Jerusalem stone exterior, the 283-room hotel is known for its intimate authentic Jerusalem character and impeccable world-class service. The hotel was recently voted the most luxurious hotel in the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards, as well as the best hotel in Israel and fourth-best hotel in the entire Middle East by readers of the influential Conde Nast Traveler magazine. For more information, please visit www.inbalhotel.com.
