A performance by Jewish singer Cantor Shea Rubinstein on Wednesday, August 14th, added another highlight to the Marine Park Summer Concert Series, offering diverse music and entertainment events.
Despite being shortened due to early mosquito spraying to combat West Nile Virus, the concert delivered a powerful and poignant message. Rubinstein’s performance resonated deeply with the audience, especially during a time of turmoil and war in Israel, coupled with rising concerns about antisemitism at home.
One of the standout moments was Rubinstein’s rendition of “Bring Him Home” from Les Misérables. He chose this song to draw a parallel between its lyrics and current global events, reflecting on the struggles faced by Jewish communities and the hope for the safe return of hostages, both American and Israeli. The cantor also paid tribute to the armed forces, emphasizing that beyond politics, we are all parents, children and human beings.
Rubinstein also performed “Memories,” a song he wrote about a concentration camp survivor. The heartfelt lyrics told the story of a grandfather remembering what he endured and grandchild asking him about the tears he sheds, a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of history on the present. The concert then shifted to a more upbeat tone with Rubinstein performing popular songs in Hebrew, including “Hallelujah” and “House of the Lord.”
Accompanied by Tzvi Hamel on keyboard, Rubinstein wrapped up his set with an energetic final song in Hebrew. Following his performance, DJ Scott Yahney took over, entertaining the crowd with oldies but goodies, including “Fly Me to the Moon,” Barry Manilow’s “Can’t Smile Without You,” and Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline,” which had some in the audience singing along.
Yahney continued with classics like “Moon River,” “New York, New York” and a crowd-pleasing rendition of “What a Wonderful World” in a Louis Armstrong-style voice, much to the delight of the attendees.
The evening also featured a raffle, with three lucky winners taking home bottles of kosher wine. Assemblywoman Jaime Williams and Community Board 18 District Manager Sue Ann Partnow were in attendance, with Rubinstein offering them special thanks. The event was made possible with the help of Yahney, who provided the sound equipment and worked the soundboard.
The Marine Park concerts are sponsored by Assemblywoman Jaime Williams, Marine Park Alliance, Kings Plaza and Nick’s Lobster House, among others, in coordination with State Senators Simcha Felder and Roxanne Persaud, and District Leader Frank Seddio, and in partnership with Millennium Development, NYC Parks and the Marine Park Community Association.
Upcoming performances include a Doo-Wop night with Sound Affair on August 21st and a Disco Night on August 28th. Before the final concert on August 28th, there will be a Public Safety Meeting hosted by New Yorkers First and Assemblywoman Williams at 6:30 p.m., addressing public safety and issues surrounding our communities.
All concerts take place on the lawn near the bocce courts at 7 p.m., with rain dates on Thursdays. Bring a blanket, chair and your friends and family! For more information, call 718-252-2124.
