Over 2,500 advance tickets were snapped up for the ninth Leeds Jewish International Performing Arts Festival, which was opened on Sunday at the Carriageworks Theatre by the Lord Mayor, Councillor Judith Elliott.

First night performances included Steven Brinberg’s tribute to Barbra Streisand, Simply Barbra and Josh Epstein’s speed-dating comedy 7 Girls 7 Guys 7 Minutes. Israeli singer-songwriter Ronit Shahar, London cantor Steven Leas and comedian Mark Maier were among other stars of the five-day event.

Festival director Ellie Ruhan said organisers Makor were delighted at demand: “Ticket sales are very strong and could increase on last year, which is quite amazing considering the economic situation.”

Chairman Stan Cundle told the 200 guests at the opening that the festival was a showcase for Jewish talent worldwide.