Today we attended a musical performance of L’Chaim II: A Tribute to the Jewish Legacy of Broadway (and Christmas). Since I wasn’t sure of the meaning of L’Chaim, I looked it up. According to my online research it is a Yiddish toast meaning “to life”. The Broadway singers went back into time to talk about the various Jewish composters and sing some of their big Broadways hits. Plus, they remarked on how the Jewish Broadway tunes evolved over time.
Apparently, after a showing of hands, some audience members attended their first performance at the McLean Community Center a while back. Today’s show was 90 minutes long.
Some of the Broadway shows they talked and/or sang songs about were Guys and Dolls, West Side Story, Funny Girl, Fiddler on the Roof, Little Shop of Horrors, etc.
McLean Community Center – Alden
This was the first time we attended a performance of the McLean Community Center, Alden Theater. Apparently, the residents of McLean pay an extra property tax to support this center. The center is also celebrating its 50-year anniversary on January 4, 2025.
We came a little early to get a parking spot. However, when I left there were still parking spots available on the upper third parking lot, so lots of parking.
Ending Notes on To Life Blog
We enjoyed the stellar voices of the singers and the musicians accompanying them.
At the very end of the performance, they sang a short composition of Christmas music with tunes such as White Christmas, Let it Snow and Silver Bells–All composed by Jewish songwriters.
Before attending the performance, I really did not know much about Jewish Boardway composers, so I was happy to learn a little bit more. We had a wonderful time, listened to great music, and would definitely return.
Before the show, I spoke briefly with Elizabeth, of the McLean Community Center. Apparently, photographs and video filming are not allowed in the theater. Thank you for answering my questions.
Note: One of the singers had a tape for sale in the lobby after the performance.
Resource Sites: Wikipedia and Chabad.org