Purim in China

Congregation Chofetz Chayim’s “Purim in China” party on March 1st will feature Kosher Chinese delicacies, a demonstration in ancient martial arts and healing techniques, plenty of wine and *local Jewish musicians.

Congregation Chofetz Chayim’s “Purim In China” is sure to be a unique celebration featuring a show of ancient martial arts & healing techniques demonstrated by the experts of Fong’s Wing Chun Gung-Fu academy and live musical performances by local Jewish talent. While enjoying this unique celebration, participants will feast on MSG-free, kosher, Chinese delicacies throughout the evening paired with Jewish fortune cookies and plenty of wine.

Wing Chun Gung-Fu is a system founded almost 400 years ago. Auguspine Fong, Founder of Fong’s Wing Chun Gung-Fu academy, teaches his students various “forms,” which he calls “KATA.” Visitors will see various demonstrations such as “The Sticky Hand,” and the “Tai Chi Form.” Ancient first aid healing techniques that date back thousands of years will also be featured at the event. Each year Congregation Chofetz Chayim provides a wonderful family friendly Purim Celebration featuring some of the most unique performers in the Tucson area. This year, “Purim in China,” is sure to be a beautiful Jewish celebration with an unexpected Chinese twist that will be fun for the whole family! “Purim in China,” begins at 5pm on March 1st.

The cost is $25 for adults, $15 for students & $12 for children under 12 years old. Congregation Chofetz Chayim is located at 5150 East Fifth Street in Tucson. This event is open to the entire Jewish Community.

Register at www.tucsontorah.org/purim-reservation, or contact Rabbi Becker at 520-747-7780.

*Purim Celebration Musicians

(read biographies below)

Marty Taub

Marty was born on the Lower East Side of Manhattan NYC, but raised in Brooklyn.

His love of music began at about 7 years of age when he would listen to his parents’ classical music collection.  About 5 years after that, the Beatles performed on the Ed Sullivan Show, and Marty was hooked. His first guitar lessons focused on the popular folk music songs, which were also riding a wave of popularity during those early 60s.  But the lure of electric rock n’ roll soon won him over, and he put together his first band.

At the age of 15, Marty joined up with a few Yeshiva High School boys to form “The Crystal Ship.”  This band played at local synagogues, and at the legendary “Educational Alliance” on the Lower East Side.  But the band experienced its greatest success on stage at the famous Town Hall theatre in New York City.

In more recent years, Marty performed at Chanukah Menorah lightings in New Jersey and New York, and other synagogue functions -- before relocating to Tucson.

A daily Shacharis attendee, and member of our Mishna Club, Marty is looking forward to performing at our Purim Celebration.

Michael Wallner

Michael Wallner has been playing banjo and guitar since his childhood in Brooklyn, NY. He was greatly influenced by musicians of the folk revival of the 50s and 60s, including Harry Belafonte, Pete Seeger, The Weavers, The Kingston Trio, and The Greenbriar Boys.  

He has played American and British folk, old-time country, bluegrass, blues, and Jewish music. 

In Tucson, Michael's first group was The Sandy River String Band.

He also played for 2 1/2 years with Leslie Keith, one of the pioneers of bluegrass fiddling and singing, in the Leslie Keith Band.

His playing lately has been at private parties and at many events at Chofetz Chayim.