The recent event aimed to blend performance art with the traditional Seder dinner, creating a unique experience centered around the art of coming together. Described as a “living and collaborative observance,” the dinner encouraged participants to co-create, make meaning in real-time, and honor transitions through transformation. RoseLee Goldberg, the founder of Performa, emphasized the beauty of sitting around a table where one could follow a script or improvise, sparking engaging conversations that could last for hours. Passover, with its themes of politics, human nature, and emancipation from slavery, provided a rich backdrop for the evening’s festivities.
Following the rituals of the Haggadah, which included wine drinking, singing, reading, and chanting the 10 plagues, a feast of shawarma roasted lamb, Moroccan brisket, falafel plate, crispy potatoes, cauliflower couscous, and flourless chocolate cake was served. The menu, curated by Blumberg, offered a playful twist on traditional dishes while still honoring their roots. For event planner Lobel, the evening was a blend of past traditions and future endeavors, marking a transition as she prepared to open a new space on the Lower East Side.
As the night unfolded, the spirit of celebration and joy permeated the gathering. In a time when joy feels scarce, the Seder provided a space to come together, celebrate freedom, and reclaim humanity through laughter, fun, and community. Despite the challenges of the current administration, the event served as a reminder of the power of joy in bringing people together and restoring a sense of connection and humanity.
The image captured at the event, showing a beautifully set table with floral arrangements, adds a visual element to the story, showcasing the warmth and intimacy of the gathering. As the conversation flowed and the evening progressed, the sense of community and celebration only grew stronger, highlighting the importance of coming together to share stories, traditions, and laughter. In a world that often feels divided, events like these serve as a reminder of the power of unity, joy, and the simple act of coming together around a shared table.
