London School of Jewish Studies makes a drama out of raising £550k

A groundbreaking performance of ‘Trial of Solomon’ helped the London School of Jewish Studies (LSJS) raise more than £550k as part of a 36-hour fundraising campaign supported by more than 1,000 donors.

The royal courtroom drama, held online and in person in the school’s campus library in Hendon, saw Rabbi Dr Harvey Belovski take on the role of judge with Caroline Stone and Adam Taub acting as prosecution and Adam Gersch and Rachel Marcus as defence.

Over 400 guests, watching live on screen and in person, enjoyed the original and detailed look at one of ancient Israel’s central figures.

The event featured guest witness statements from the King of Tyre, played by Anton Ereira, and ‘Wife number 50’, played by comedian Rachel Creeger. Rabbi Dr Zarum, as the court clerk, got the trial underway.

Joanne Greenaway, LSJS chief executive, said: “This event really showcased the best of what we provide for the community – rigorous, accessible and innovative learning. I’m so happy that, with the support of the LSJS community, we have raised funds to enable us to continue to foster excellence in teaching through our lifelong learning, as well as our multiple teacher training routes and the sharing of expertise in Jewish education to achieve even greater impact.”

To find out more about supporting LSJS or about teacher training, degree or lifelong learning courses, please visit www.lsjs.ac.uk