Downtown Seder

In its 5th year, the innovative Downtown Seder will highlight the cultural connection between the arts and Jewish tradition. Michael Dorf, the founder of the Knitting Factory, has assembled a variety of artists and luminaries to participate in a live Passover Seder. Over 500 people will sit together and enjoy a full Kosher dinner complete with matzah ball soup, Empire Kosher Chicken, and traditional holiday treats. Over the course of the evening a one-of-a-kind collection of 30 artists, musicians, comedians, actors, politicians, and performers will offer their creative interpretations of various ancient rituals and the telling of the Exodus story.

The Seder will take place in a beautiful landmark building on Wall Street, 1 block from the New York Stock Exchange. In this classic old banking hall, performers from last years line-up and some new additions are confirmed. They include Dan Zanes and his daughter to perform the classic 4 questions, David Krakauer, Jill Sobule, Josh Dolgin’s “So Called”, Frank London, Jewlia Eisenberg & Charming Hostess, Uri Caine, Gary Lucas, Margot Leverett & the Klezmer Mountain Boys, Divhan, and What I like about Jew. Comedy talent from Judy Gold, Eric Drysdale, and Lewis Black are scheduled. A special video will be presented of 4 more questions from Harvey Fierstein as well as last’s video highlight of Al Franken performing “Go Down Moses”.

Dr. Ruth Westeimer along with a number of political figures, will also help present sections of the Haggadah. Patrons will enjoy a delicious sit-down meal and all will take home a printed and bound souvenir Haggadah designed and prepared for the occasion.