Sharing a legend

I was a fan of Judy Garland’s long before I became a rabbi. But, there is a connection between these two parts of my life: Judaism is about appreciating and celebrating life. Judy Garland in concert was, albeit secular, always a celebration. Richard Vidan writes (Letters, July 20) that the Canon Theatre production of Lorna Luft’s tribute to her mother’s musical legacy is “an insult to real artists and artistry.” He clearly has not seen the show.

Jewish tradition tells us that we are all born with a spark of the divine in our souls. We are also taught that the way we are remembered by those we leave behind when we die is what gives meaning to the life we lived. We have, each of us, something unique and powerful to share with the world. Lorna Luft gave a gift to all of us when she chose to share her talent and her connection to the legend who was her mother. Without the smoke and fireworks and voice-enhancers and dancers and onstage elevators that have become necessities for performers in 2003, Luft does something different: She comes out on the stage and talks and tells stories and sings. That’s all. She “just” entertains us. And entertain she does!

The performance I attended was exceptional: Sold out, happy, touching, filled with warmth and love and memories. But also fresh and alive and exuberant. If Judy Garland had been Jewish, this would have recently been her 34th yahrzeit (the Jewish observance of the anniversary of one’s death). We Jews light a candle each year as a way to honor and remember our loved ones. Lorna Luft lights a candle, all right. It is a bright, shining and brave candle for her to light.

Rabbi Yossi Carron

Encino