theatre review

Jewish Chronicles

Daniel Cainer

'Jewish Chronicles' is a literal title: this is Daniel Cainer's personal journey back to Jewishness, in comic songs about his family and the Jewish community. Frank without controversy, personal without confrontation, Cainer has impressive vocal, musical and emotional range. He's warm, open, intimate, funny, as well as timely, exploring Jewishness in a turbulent 21st century. The songs are light but each is deeply felt; it's not on-stage therapy or cheap laughs at religion and culture, just sharing without judgement what he has found while exploring his roots. The rousing finale during which Cainer seems to finally reach his full confidence and richest voice is a gentle reminder that comedy need not be cruel, and cultural exploration can have good tunes.

Ralli Hall Community Centre, 17 May, 7.30pm, £8.00 (£6.00), fpp 51

tw rating: 3/5

published: May-2009

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