Bat-Sheva Slavin, Museum Director — ext. 140, bslavin@syjcc.org

Sholom Aleichem
150th Birthday

"Life is a dream for the wise, a game for the fool, a comedy for the rich, and a tragedy for the poor" (Sholom Aleichem)

Sholom Aleichem had a humorous view of the world around him. From taking a pen name, literally meaning "Peace be with you" to wondering ..."where is peace?"

The masterful storyteller was born Solomon Rabinowitz, in the Ukraine, Russia in 1856 and died in New York City in 1916. He was one of twelve siblings living with a stepmother, and a storytelling father in tight quarters and scarce money, as well as being a witness to the difficult life of the Jewish people in his little shtetl. This setting provided young Solomon with vivid material for many of his stories.

Sholom Aleichem is known as one of the world's greatest Yiddish writers. He had written stories and plays like, "Fiddler on the Roof", and poems which were published in 28 volumes.

Although Sholom Aleichem's rich descriptive stories infused with tradition, rituals and human nature, (which could be lost somewhat in translation), are written about times long gone, his message of the importance of the family and tradition is everlasting. Let's turn the clock backwards and learn from Sholom Aleichem how to dream wisely, how not to play foolish games, to live richly with humor in our hearts, and turn tragedy into a blessing. Visitors will:

* Explore Sholom Aleichem's Crater of the "moon"
* Visit the Shtetl: The Chaider, the tailor and the butcher
* Enjoy Sholom Aleichem's Shabbat and holiday table

Public Hours:
Sunday 1:00-4:00 pm

Group programs available:
Sunday: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Weekdays by appointment

Fee: $5 per person
children under 3 no charge.
$18 per family