Will Barbra to Perform in Jerusalem?
(Jan 21, 2008) - The Jerusalem Post and The Jewish Telegraphic Agency have both recently reported that Barbra Streisand will accept an invitation from the government of Israel to participate in a May 13 conference celebrating the country's 60th anniversary.

According to these news outlets, Barbra will most likely perform Avinu Malkeinu (in Hebrew) at the personal request of President Shimon Peres during ceremonies in Jerusalem. It would also be the first time Barbra will have performed this particular selection at a live event. Barbra recorded Avinu Malkeinu, a traditional prayer sung for the Jewish New Year, on her 1997 album, "Higher Ground."

UPDATE (April 22, 2008) - As reported in Reuters, a spokesman for Barbra Streisand has confirmed that she will not be on hand to participate in Israel's 60th anniversary celebrations this May. Personal obligations will prevent Barbra from personally attending festivities scheduled to take place in Jerusalem.

The "Yentl" Premiere and a University Endowment
Barbra visited Israel in April of 1984 for the premiere of her film, "Yentl." During that visit, Barbra met with the current prime minister, Yitzak Shamir, and dedicated "The Emanuel Streisand Building for Jewish Studies" at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem.

On April 4, Barbra appeared on "Good Morning America" via a live satellite feed from Jerusalem. Host David Hartman spoke with Barbra about the Israeli premiere of her film, and then asked her to speak about her experiences in Israel:

"I came here to dedicate a building in my father's name at the Hebrew University. And that was really a thrill yesterday. The students, even though they were on vacation, came to greet me and were singing songs through the halls as they went to unveil the sign for my father's building. It was really, really thrilling: the spirit, the sense of dedication, and the sense of purpose. It was very inspiring."

"The Stars Salute Israel at 30"
Barbra was also on hand for another anniversary celebration for Israeli statehood. She was the featured performer at "The Stars Salute Israel at 30" concert in Los Angeles on May 7, 1978. That evening, Barbra performed three songs (People, Happy Days Are Here Again and Tomorrow) before closing the show with Israel's national Anthem, Hatikva.

From the stage of the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Barbra also spoke live (via satellite) with former prime minister Golda Meir:

Barbra: "I really want to thank you, from all of us, for allowing us to come into your home tonight, Golda, and for taking up your valuable time to be with us."

Golda Meir: "It's really a pleasure, and I'm honored that you people have chosen me to speak to you. And please let them know how deeply appreciative I, and everybody in Israel is of your contribution for our 30th anniversary."