An afternoon of a cappella artists will highlight the Merrimack Valley Jewish Federation’s annual First Light celebration. The community-wide Hanukkah event and family concert will be held Sunday, Dec. 2 at Temple Emanuel, 7 Haggetts Pond Road in Andover beginning at 2:30 p.m.
A cappella groups Honorable Menschen, Alef Beats and ShenaniGanns will perform a wide range of music from Israeli and English pop, soul, rock, to traditional Jewish songs.
Honorable Menschen is described by event organizers as “Boston’s premiere post-collegiate Jewish a cappella group, widely acclaimed for its unique blend of Jewish, Israeli, and World musical repertoire.”
Alef Beats is Brown/RISD’s premier Jewish-themed a cappella group. Members perform a number of arrangements by Jewish singers and songrwriters.
ShenaniGanns is an award-winning student a cappella group from Gann Academy. Founded in 2007, ShenaniGanns has received national recognition through both its live and recorded work, including the Contemporary A Cappella Recording Awards and the International Competition of High School A Cappella, according to a release.
The festive afternoon will include a complimentary Latke bar and Hanukkah treats.
The cost is $18 for adults but $9 for people over 70; $9 for child older than 5, while children 5 and younger are free. Family plan maximum is $40 (children 12 and under only). Tickets can be purchased online at mvjf.org. Call 978-688-0466 for more information about the event and purchasing tickets by mail.
First Light is sponsored by the Merrimack Valley Jewish Federation, with support from local businesses.
