Community to unite for Royal Albert Hall party marking Israel at 70

Thousands are set to descend on the Royal Albert Hall for the focal point of the community’s celebrations for Israel’s 70th birthday.

The Jewish Leadership Council, UJIA and Israel Bonds will take the lead on 24 May celebration, showcasing the best Israel has to offer in arts and culture and highlighting the ties between Britain and Israel. Senior officials from both countries will join the prestigious party.

Jonathan Goldstein, Chair of the Jewish Leadership Council, said: “Israel’s 70th anniversary is a monumental event – for our Jewish homeland and for our Jewish community. It is only fitting for British Jews to come together in the Royal Albert Hall – one of the world’s most historic and iconic buildings – to loudly and proudly celebrate Israel.”

UJIA chair Louise Jacobs added: “As the community’s leading Israel charity, UJIA is delighted to partner with the JLC in hosting this event. It is truly an excellent way to build a lifelong commitment between our community and the people of Israel.”

The United Synagogue’s Alan Aziz originally conceived the Royal Albert Hall event – but the timing of the announcement earlier this year ruffled some communal feathers as the JLC had previously said it would coordinate a community-wide event. The decision for the JLC and other to take the lead has been agreed with the US and tickets will go on sale later this month.

Michael Goldstein, President of the United Synagogue, said: “I am extremely proud of the United Synagogue for having laid the critical groundwork for this event. By working collaboratively with the JLC, of which we are a constituent member, and UJIA, we can ensure that all members of the community will together celebrate Israel and its centrality in our lives.”