MUSICIANS and dancers with links to Harlow (Reform) Jewish Community delighted a packed hall of members and friends celebrating the synagogue’s 70th anniversary.
Guest Robert Halfon MP described the community as a “lighthouse” for Harlow and further afield, noting that few towns of a similar size were able to boast the presence of such a flourishing community.
Harlow dancers Razed Roof, who have appeared at the synagogue several times over the years, moved their audience with their evocative dances including one specially designed for the anniversary. President Cheryl Petar and chair Alan Cohen handed out flowers to each dancer.
L’Chaim Trio, whose lead singer Joel Goodman was barmitzvah at Harlow, played songs from the musicals written by Jewish composers.
The four musicians of the wind band Chameleon Quartet showed their versatility, swapping instruments during a set of classical pieces. They also performed jointly with Razed Roof.
Synagogue members Malcolm Tinn on guitar and his wife, Adrienne rounded off the afternoon with a mix of folk songs including an Israeli classic, Hava Nagilah, that got people up and dancing.
The afternoon was compered by the president who welcomed guests including Harlow Council chair and deputy chair councillors Andrew Johnson and Sue Livings.
Cheryl said afterwards: “It was fantastic to celebrate our special anniversary with so many members and friends. We had a delightful afternoon of superb dance and music. And our afternoon tea in the interval was a lovely chance to catch up with each other.
“We’re so honoured about the part we play in the community life of Harlow and we’re looking forward to the next 70 years with excitement.”
