Congregation Kneseth Israel celebrates anniversary

Submitted by Congregation Kneseth Israel

Elgin’s Congregation Kneseth Israel completes its 120th anniversary celebration with two special events.

On Saturday, Feb. 9, Kneseth Israel, in cooperation with Elgin Community College, will be welcoming comedian Robert Klein at 7:30 p.m. in the college’s Blizzard Theater, 1700 Spartan Drive in Elgin.

An alumni of Second City, Klein was the first comedian to film an HBO special and has made nine specials for the network. He has appeared on “The Tonight Show” and “The Late Show with David Letterman” more than 100 times, and can be seen in films like “The Owl and the Pussycat,” “Primary Colors,” and “Radioland Murders.”

You may purchase tickets to the Robert Klein Show through the CKI website at www.ckielgin.org or by calling (847) 622-0300.

On Sunday, Feb. 10, Kneseth Israel will host a celebratory brunch at 11:30 a.m. featuring the Maxwell Street Klezmer Band. Founded in 1983 by Lori Lippitz, the Maxwell Street Klezmer Band reintroduced traditional dance music to weddings and other Jewish celebrations.

Over the years, the band has performed on stages across the country (including Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center) and played nine tours in Europe. Their third CD, “You Should Be So Lucky!” is one of the 10 best-selling klezmer recordings in America.

Purchase tickets to the brunch by contacting Zahava Raz at (847) 741-5656.

“Robert Klein is a legendary veteran funnyman entertainer who will not only make you smile, but laugh with his comedy act,” said Richard Kruth, 120th Anniversary chairman. “Plus, you can’t go wrong with klezmer music whenever there is a celebration. We are very pleased to have reached this milestone. Join us for one or both events as we in celebrate CKI’s 120 years in Elgin.”

Congregation Kneseth Israel serves the diverse Jewish community of the greater Fox Valley area. It offers weekly services, a religious school, observance of all life cycle events, and a variety of additional programming.

For information, visit www.ckielgin.org.