The ‘In One Voice’ Concert in the Park was an initiative set up by the Kadimah along with the Bundist SKIF youth movement. Originally devised by Lilly Kochen, a young Jewish community activist, the aim of the festival was to celebrate Jewish life in Melbourne and encouraged Jewish institutions from across Melbourne to take part in the event. The first of these festivals was held in 1988 and continued well into the 2000s.[1]
The event itself, which was held at Caulfield Park, featured several sections. The first was the main stage, which featured performances by Jewish community members. As was explained in the 1996 In One Voice pamphlet, the stage would be filled by “singers, poets, acoustic musicians, actors and comedians”, all performing according to Jewish themes.[2] The event also featured an art exhibition called ‘With One Brush’, which featured art work from Jewish artists around Melbourne.[3] Finally, Jewish community organizations ran their own stalls, advertising to others who they are and what they do. This included youth groups, schools, political organizations and many more groups. Amidst all this were food stalls, rides and activities for families to enjoy together. Many well-known politicians also attended the event. In 1990, Bob Hawke, who was then the Prime Minister of Australia, opened the festival wearing a SKIF t-shirt, which gained the event much publicity.[4] On the right, you will also find a picture of Kim Beazley, the former leader of the Australian Labor Party, at the festival. The event encouraged the involvement of Jewish youth around Melbourne. With the assistance of the SKIF youth movement, there was a concerted effort to include people of all ages in the festival. Jewish schools would perform on stage and children were often seen on rides or taking part in other activities, as can be seen in the photos on this page. The festival was very popular and, in 1993, attracted roughly 15,000 people.[5] |
“We hope that you will join with us in this [celebration] as we salute
the treasures of our Jewish Culture. This is truly an event for the whole
family and the entire Community”.[6]
- In One Voice pamphlet, 1990 |