How does a nation under constant pressure find ways to laugh? In this lively program, comedian and educator Benji Lovitt takes us on a journey through the uniquely Israeli use of humor as a tool for resilience. From stand-up and viral videos to TV sketches and interviews with Israeli comics, we’ll explore how laughter has helped Israelis cope with challenge and uncertainty—not by ignoring hardship, but by transforming it. Come ready for insight, conversation, and plenty of laughs along the way.

Since making aliyah in 2006, comedian/author Benji Lovitt has performed for audiences around the world including Jewish Federations, Hillels, Birthright Israel, and more, and has opened for headliners such as Jim Gaffigan, Elon Gold, and Yohay Sponder. Benji's perspectives have been featured on Israeli television and radio and in outlets such as USA Today, Time Magazine, BBC Radio, The Atlantic, and the Times of Israel. Benji has worked as a cross-cultural trainer with groups including Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Masa Israel Journey, and he recently co-authored "Israel 201", the winner of the National Jewish Book Award for Jewish Identity and Education.