Why are so many comedians Jewish?  What is the background and origins of Yiddish wit and comedy?    Was it a coincidence that the movie industry was founded by Jewish immigrants and that much of “Broadway” was inhabited by performers, directors and producers who identified as Jews?  Likewise, the music industry interfaced and experienced much of the same phenomena.  This course will explore all of these issues plus study the depth and breadth of this unique ethnic humor:  from the Russian shtetl to American television; from the Wise Men of Chelm to the heyday of the Borscht Belt; from humorous interactions in the Bible to the State of Israel. You are invited to study and laugh as you add to your own repertoire and knowledge of Jewish humor.  Instructor: Marden Paru; fee $60.

To register or seek more information, please contact Marden Paru, Dean and Rosh Yeshiva; at 941.379.5655 or marden.paru@gmail.com .  Please make checks payable to the Sarasota Liberal Yeshiva and mail to Marden Paru, 5445 Pamela Wood Way #160, Sarasota, FL 34233.