“The Muslim Funnymentalists” is the theme of the annual Muslimfest 2009 to be held at Mississauga’s prestigious Living Arts Centre on August 1-2. Last year, more than 10,000 people attended the festival.
In addition to usual activities related to Muslim history, culture, food and sports – the added attraction would be Rabbi Bob Alper, author and a stand-up comic from Vermount – to take the audience on a hysterically funny journey and, at the same time, bridge gaps between Muslims and non-Muslims.
“I always find when people laugh together, they can’t hate each other. Positive humour works both ways. It’s a terrific way to bridge a divide,” – says the Rabbi who often partners on-stage with Muslim comedians.
The festival which started in 2002 – aims to highlight Muslim arts and culture, celebrate diversity, and build lasting relationships with non-Muslim groups. The festval has won several awards for its interfaith goodwill.
Rabbi Alper and his first partner, Ahmed Ahmed, performed at Synagogues and a mosques, but their unique, clean comedy caught on at college campuses with Jewish and Muslim groups sponsoring. When Ahmed started taking movie roles, Rabbi was joined by Azhur Usman, the founder of Allah Made Me Funny group.
Baba Ali, Asif Ali, Aman Ali, Omar Regan and Waseem MoeMoney are also expected to perform at Muslimfest 2009.
