Five can’t-miss events at this year’s Chutzpah! Festival

by Shawn Conner

The annual Chutzpah! Festival is a showcase of international Jewish performing arts. Each year, the festival attracts internationally renowned performers in the fields of dance, comedy, theatre and music.

This year’s Chutzpah happens Feb. 22 – March 9 at various venues around town, and features some world-class entertainment. Let’s look at some highlights.

Dudu Tassa and The Kuwaitis – Dudu Tassa is an Iraqi-Jewish musician based in Israel, where he’s a major figure in that country’s rock scene. If he’s got issues, it’s safe to say he works them out in music with a band that includes qanun (a Middle Eastern string instrument), violin and cello along with the usual guitar-bass-drums configuration. March 9 at 8 p.m., Vancouver FanClub, 1050 Granville St. Tickets: $30, $25 for students.

Tickets for festival performances are available at chutzpahfestival.com or by calling 604-257-5145 or 604-684-2787.