WELCOME TO THE MARTHA'S VINEYARD HEBREW CENTERCelebrating over 100 Years of Jewish Life on the Island
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FOUNDERS HAD FUN

Carole Cronig Abrahams
Consultant: Helen Issokson

In addition to the fun of picnics, parties, and feasts, Hebrew Center members put on a show in 1952. Ralph Levinson had seen a mock wedding performed in drag at an off-island synagogue and the idea took off here.  Helen Issokson, who was the official photographer, remembers that they had a wonderful time planning it, saying “We had more fun planning it than doing it!”  

They laughed their way through many meetings as they came up with suggestions. The show paired a short groom with a husky, tall, pregnant bride and included creative costumes.   Bernie Issokson, the bride, had “ugly and gross” teeth over his own teeth and wore Helen’s maternity dress.  He had made the false teeth himself when he was stationed in a building with an eye and dental clinic during World War II.  The rabbi, Jack Levett, wore a formal suit borrowed from the undertaker next to Brickman’s store.  The ring-bearer, Yudal Brickman, wore bright chartreuse socks and carried a bagel on a pillow.  They all proceeded to the chuppah along a "white carpet" of toilet paper.    


The Wedding of Shandel Runda Schmerel de Longa at M.V.  Hebrew Centre May 18, 1952

Cast:
Bride                          Bernie Issokson 
Groom                        David Cronig
Ring-bearer                 Yudal Brickman
Flower Girl                  Ed Cronig        
Rabbi                         Jack Levett
Father of the Bride      Joe Frisch
Parents of the bride     Kussell Gordon/ Dave Rappaport
Also                           Henry Cronig

Audience                  Carl Cronig, Grace Cronig,  Mae Cronig,  Marsha Cronig,  Phyllis Cronig,  Sophie Levinson,  Bruce Levett, Rose Levett,  
                                 Adeline Rappaport ..and dozens more

Director                    Irving Kligler                             




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Martha's Vineyard Hebrew Center
Mailing address: P.O. Box 692
Vineyard Haven, MA 02568
(tel) 508-693-0745

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