For the past 36 years, The Laugh Factory comedy club in Hollywood has opened its doors for free Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services. This year will be a little different.
Rabbi Bob Jacobs and Cantor Robin Winston will lead the virtual congregation live via Instagram, Facebook and YouTube, allowing congregants to participate while safely social distancing at home. The livestream will also allow people in hospitals, nursing and retirement homes, and in quarantine around the world to participate in the services, which are in the Conservative/Reform tradition.
“With everything that we’ve had to deal with here in America and around the world, we need the hope and joy our High Holy Days bring more than ever,” Laugh Factory owner Jamie Masada said. “There are people everywhere that need to celebrate a joyous Rosh Hashanah and a meaningful Yom Kippur. We will all be praying for a happier and healthier New Year for all people around our world.”
Rosh Hashanah services will take place Saturday, Sept. 19 at 11 a.m. PT. Yom Kippur services begin with Kol Nidre on Sunday, Sept. 27 at 6 p.m. PT, followed by a morning service at 11 a.m. and Neilah at 6 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 28.
Join the livestream on Instagram, @LaughFactoryHW on Facebook, and Laugh Factory on YouTube.