Jakob Ari Shapiro ^z"l  performed in the Beth Tzedec Purim Family Musical for four years. During that time, he made an incredible impression on everyone who knew him. He was talented and easy-going, positive and agreeable, and took initiative to help in all areas even without being asked. Jakob was beloved by his fellow cast and crew members, and was hugely admired by the other children in the Purim musical. Sadly, Jakob passed away in 2012. He will be forever in our hearts. 

To honour his memory, the Jakob Ari Shapiro Purim Award was created, to be given once a year to a Beth Tzedec member between the ages of 12 and 17, who exemplifies the qualities for which Jakob was known. This year, the very first award went to Tamara Abrams.

Tamara is a kind, sweet and always-smiling member of the Beth Tzedec Purim Musical Family. She has always taken the show seriously, learning her lines and choreography quickly, accepting direction to improve her performance, volunteering to take on extra small parts as needed, and remaining friendly and positive to all the cast members. In addition, Tamara helped keep the younger actors occupied during the dress rehearsals and actual performances.

We lovingly remember Jakob and wish Tamara a Mazal Tov.