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IN PRODUCTION

Hava nagila, hava nagila
Hava nagila ve-nismeha
Hava neranena, hava neranena
Hava neranena ve-nismeha
Uru, uru ahim
Uru ahim be-lev sameah!

It’s to music what the bagel is to food – a uniquely Jewish invention that has transcended its origins and become a worldwide hit. But Hava Nagila…what is it? Hava Nagila, What Is It? is a documentary feature which asks that burning question.

And also:

- Where did Hava Nagila come from?
- What does it mean?
- Do you have to be Jewish to Hava?
- Why is Hava Nagila the most recognizably Jewish thing around the world?
- Is it odd that this iconic Jewish anthem is an ode to happiness?
- Are mambo, surf and techno Hava mash-ups still the real thing?
- And, what’s the deal with the chair?

Part humorous, part informative, this exploration of the history and meaning of Hava Nagila will uncover the mysteries behind one of the most frequently recorded and performed standards of all time. Scholars will trace the song through the decades. Singers and comedians will provide their own renditions of the song. Jews and non-Jews alike will riff on Hava happenings in their pasts. And in the end, Hava Nagila will get the kind of insightful and meaningful treatment it deserves – one that explores Jewish and American culture and history, and reveals the power of music to bridge cultural divides and bring us together as human beings.

Thank You for Your Support!

Because of your donations on www.indiegogo.com ($13,748 to date!), we were able to film leading Israeli musicologist (and Hava expert) Edwin Seroussi in May 2010. In July 2010, we will used funds raised to film two days with celebrities and other Hava Nagilah luminaries. Stay tuned for more exciting updates!