We attended one of the hottest and funniest shows on Valentine’s Day, The Chosen Comedy Festival, hosted by Elon Gold and Modi Rosenfeld, the first festival of its kind highlights some of our favorite Jewish comedians and artists. The festival is the brainchild of Dani Zoldan, owner of StandUp NY, a prominent Manhattan comedy club. After a successful debut in Brooklyn, NY, we’re thrilled that they partnered with the Jewish Journal and made its way to the West Coast with a stop at the gorgeous Orpheum Theatre in DTLA. Here’s a review of our new favorite comedy show.
Wendy Liebman – photo by Alex Mendoza
Everything about the night was a comedy lover’s dream, from the pre-party mixer before the show, where guests were treated with noshes (light bites), a flowing bar featuring multiple vendors including wine samples from Twin Suns Wine, gummies from Hamsa Edibles, and the chance to mingle with talent. The show started off a quick surprise hello from audience attendee and beloved actress Mayim Bialik and continued with music stylings from two great bands including our new favorite rock and pop group Moshav. Their lively performance set an uplifting and heartfelt mood for the rest of the night.
The heavy hitting comedy lineup included the likes of Jeff Garlin of “Curb Your Enthusiasm”, Dan Ahdoot of “Cobra Kai,” Wendy Liebman, comedians and podcasters Moshe Kasher and Natasha Leggero, social media star Stefanie Yunger and LA’s own Leah Lamarr, along with several other extremely talented performers. Hosts Gold and Rosenfeld’s chemistry is undeniable and charming our cheeks still hurt from smiling at their time on stage. Each of the comedians had a unique and versatile perspective, and the crowd ranged from college aged comedy lovers to seniors, all laughing at almost every point along the way.
Elon Gold – Photo by Alex Mendoza
Special shout out to the staff at The Orpheum and production team of the Chosen Comedy Fest who created an atmosphere that was welcoming and still felt intimate even with such a large event.
The Chosen Comedy Festival has a Jewish Comedy theme, but it’s truly a fun experience for everyone. Beautiful things happen when we can poke fun at ourselves, share in joy and make each other laugh. Be sure to grab a ticket and bring a friend the next time you see the Chosen Comedy Fest come to a town near you. In the meantime, check out our list of the best places to watch standup comedy in LA.
Feature photo by Alex Mendoza
