Erev Tov, Maalot Parents!
Wow, what a week it has been for Maalot! Our chanichim (campers) have been extremely busy so far, and it is only Wednesday!
On Sunday, we celebrated Yom Yisrael (Israel Day) as an entire machane (camp). It was particularly exciting when our chanichim ran the camp-wide shuk (market). As each ayda (age unit) went through to browse through Israeli goodies, veggies, cotton candy, and drinks, our chanichim were dressed as average Israeli-day characters. We had hecklers, vegetable sellers, chayalim (soldiers), religious folk, and even people dressed as old men playing shesh-besh (backgammon) on the side! Everyone was blown away by their energy and enthusiasm, and they made it one of the best Yom Yisrael’s camp has ever seen. The night ended with a camp-wide Tekes (Ceremony) where our kids performed in a funny video they made together.
Monday and Tuesday were heavy with Cabaret preparation! Every kayitz (summer) Maalot campers put on a play in front of the entire camp. This kayitz, in honor of Yavneh’s 75th anniversary, Maalot put on a cabaret called, “Studio 75!” With the help of our fantastic director, Rena Strober, our chanichim practiced day and night to perfect their talents. They all shined last night, as our campers dressed and acted as bartenders (mocktails only, don’t worry!), meltzarim (servers), security guards, press agents, photographers, and even bouncers. Meanwhile on stage, our MC’s tore the house down with funny commentary and classic jokes. As Hannah and Eytan performed in a duet, the rest of camp munched on snacks and sang along together. The other memorable acts were Jonah and Ilan doing a magic trick, Alec doing a comedy routine, Naama singing “Let it Be” and Mira and Carolyn singing “Breaking Free.” Between each act, the band (Bo, Yonatan, Eva) played music to keep the flow going. The cabaret ended with a parody of Rent’s “Seasons of Love” — “Seasons of Camp.” Every ayda was blown away by Maalot’s talent, and it was amazing to see everyone shine in their own way.
Today is Achla Yom (trip day) with a movie and surprise visit to the UNH Pool– a much needed rest after a hectic week! As we prepare for Zimriyah, our campers are getting excited with their hand motions and breathtaking songs. We can’t wait to see all of you on the livestream, tuning in to witness our chanichim bringing the Beit Am down with their ruach (spirit)!
B’ahava,
Rachel and Aaron
