Yom Ha’atzmaut and Yom Hazikaron in Melbourne
The Zionist Council of Victoria (ZCV) in partnership with the United Israel Appeal (UIA) is pleased to announce Yom Ha’atzmaut and Yom Hazikaron programs for 2014.
Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut are the most significant occasions on the Israeli calendar. In Israel the entire atmosphere of the country is transformed to reflect the solemnity of Yom Hazikaron and, immediately following, the exuberant celebration of Yom Ha’atzmaut. With the assistance and generous support of its communal and corporate partners, the ZCV provides the opportunity for the community to join together to honour the memory of Israel’s fallen and to rejoice and revel in 66 years of Jewish statehood in Israel.
Yom Hazikaron
Israel’s Remembrance Day for fallen soldiers and victims of terror – Yom Hazikaron – is commemorated on the eve of Yom Ha’atzmaut – Independence Day – to reflect the connection between the establishment of the state and sacrifices made by those who fought to ensure its survival. The tekes (ceremony) is a poignant and meaningful tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in the defence of Israel or as victims of terror. As always, the commemoration will highlight the strong, often very personal, bond between the Melbourne Jewish community and Israel
“Yom Hazikaron is one day of the year when the Melbourne Jewish community unites in solemn memory of the lives lost in the formation and defence of the State of Israel,” said Sam Tatarka, President of the Zionist Council of Victoria. “To be a part of such a memorable event is truly an honour and a privilege.”
The Yom Hazikaron commemoration will take place Sunday 4 May, 7:30 pm, at the Robert Blackwood Hall, Monash University, Clayton Campus. General admission is free of charge. Reserved seating is available for $18. Please contact the Zionist Council of Victoria at zcv@zcv.org.au for more information.
Yom Ha’atzmaut Concert featuring Lior
The Melbourne Recital Centre will be filled with the spirit of Israel as we celebrate 66 years of Israel’s independence on Monday 5 May at 7:30pm. The festive concert will feature a selection of familiar and contemporary Israeli music performed by local artists and headlined by internationally recognised Israeli-Australian artist, Lior.
From his recent orchestral work “Compassion” to his highly successful solo albums Lior demonstrates the ability to successfully apply his rich musical talent in a myriad of ways. He will perform a selection of songs based on the classic Israeli children’s book, Keves Ha’16 (The 16th Sheep), written by Yehonatan Geffen. “Even as a three-year old, these songs captured my imagination…the mastery of song writing and musicianship has made these songs truly timeless.”
Concert Music Director Adam Starr has assembled a talented line-up for the concert including Rachel Elberg, Vered Harel (creative director), Spike Levy, Sagit Lourie, Jude Perl, Rav Noam Sendor, and Gab Strum. This year’s program also includes, for the first time, performance groups from Bialik College, The King David School, Liebler Yavneh College, and Mount Scopus Memorial College.
“I’m very excited about the Yom Ha’atzmaut Concert for 2014,” says Starr. “It will bring together a diverse group of amazing Jewish talent, performing wonderful repertoire, on the beautiful Melbourne Recital Centre stage. We are introducing some new faces and voices to the community, and we are really lucky to have Lior as a featured artist.”
The program brings together a diverse group of talent, young and old, and will showcase a range of Israeli musical styles. The festive atmosphere is sure to resonate long after the last note is played.
The festivities commence Monday 5 May, 7:30 pm at the Melbourne Recital Centre in Southbank. Tickets go on sale March 1 at www.melbournerecital.com.au. Ticket prices: Premium – $66; A Reserve – $36/$21 children. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ZionistCouncilVictoria.
