The 19th Annual Chutzpah! Festival opened last night with Daniel Cainer’s Gefilte Fish & Chips at the Norman Rothstein Theatre. The festival under the direction of Artistic Managing Director Mary-Louise Albert kicked off their month-long festival of music, theatre and dance.

Multi award-winning, London-based songwriter, broadcaster and musical storyteller Daniel Cainer performed his internationally acclaimed Gefilte Fish & Chips for the first time in Canada. His show, Gefilte Fish & Chips is based on up-close-and-personal stories of what it’s like to be Jewish and British.

Telling the stories of his family through music and song, Daniel entertained the audience with photos, videos and stories. Many of the songs had a dose of humour amongst them and some of the songs were interactive encouraging audience participation, using expressions such as Oy Vey or Oy vey iz mir.

He told many travellers’ tales about feuding tailors, a naughty rabbi who was addicted to cocaine, family fables and more. One could say that he created a connection with this audience and I am sure he does similar when performing in other cities.

This year’s Chutzpah! festival continues with many exciting performances through to the end of November. Tickets range from $24 to $60 (plus applicable fees and service charges) and are available online at www.chutzpahfestival.com or by phone at 604.257.5145.

By: Richard Wolak