Orthodox Rabbi Returns to Comedy, Tackles Antisemitism on Stage

Rabbi David Rotenberg, an Orthodox rabbi and Jewish educator, has re-entered the comedy scene to address rising antisemitism through humor. After taking breaks from stand-up to focus on his rabbinical duties and family, he returned to the stage following the events of October 7, 2023, which heightened his commitment to using comedy as a medium for advocacy and awareness.

At just 15 years old, Rabbi Rotenberg performed his first stand-up routine at Yuk Yuk’s comedy club in Ottawa. Since then, he has balanced his rabbinical responsibilities with his passion for comedy, often performing at synagogue fundraisers and community events. His material, described as “edgy for a rabbi, but clean for a comedian,” primarily targets Jewish audiences while also appealing to broader groups with its relatable themes.

In a recent interview on The CJN’s North Star podcast, Rabbi Rotenberg discussed his renewed focus on comedy in light of recent global events. “If we can find the right tone to address what’s going on in our lives and find the humour, we can combat antisemitism and celebrate living as proud Jews,” he stated. His comedic style often includes light-hearted takes on serious topics, such as antisemitism and cultural misunderstandings, which he believes are essential for fostering dialogue.

Balancing Comedy and Advocacy

Rabbi Rotenberg has dedicated much of his career to promoting Jewish identity among young people, particularly through his work with the Orthodox youth movement NCSY. As managing director of Jewish student clubs in public schools across Canada, he faces the challenge of combating antisemitism while instilling pride in Jewish culture among students. He emphasizes the importance of creating an environment where students can embrace their identities without fear of backlash.

His comedy, which has evolved over nearly three decades, merges his experiences as a rabbi with his observations of contemporary society. “I often draw from the absurdity of everyday life as a rabbi,” he explained. “My signature bit, ‘Hitler on the Roof,’ started from a true story and has become a way to address sensitive subjects with humor.” This approach allows him to connect with audiences who might not typically engage with Jewish themes, making his comedy both accessible and impactful.

As he prepares for a high-profile performance at Yuk Yuk’s on November 2, 2023, Rabbi Rotenberg reflects on the changing landscape of comedy and the challenges faced by Jewish performers today. He acknowledges the potential for backlash but believes that humor can serve as a powerful tool for healing and understanding.

The Role of Humor in Difficult Times

The aftermath of the conflict that began on October 7 has made conversations about antisemitism more urgent. “People are looking for ways to process their feelings, and comedy can be a cathartic outlet,” he said. “There’s a fine line, but finding the humor in painful experiences can help us cope.”

Despite the risks associated with performing sensitive material, Rabbi Rotenberg has not shied away from addressing contemporary issues. He noted that while some audiences may not be receptive to certain jokes, others are eager to engage with humor that reflects their realities. “Comedy is about connecting with people, and if we can laugh together, we can also start to have meaningful conversations,” he added.

Rabbi Rotenberg’s commitment to using comedy for advocacy is evident in his work with the Jewish Student Union. He aims to foster a sense of community and resilience among Jewish youth, equipping them with tools to confront antisemitism while celebrating their heritage. “It’s not just about pushing back against hate; it’s about promoting a positive Jewish identity,” he explained.

As he navigates the complexities of being both a rabbi and a comedian, Rabbi Rotenberg remains dedicated to spreading laughter and understanding. His journey illustrates the unique role that humor can play in addressing serious issues, proving that even in challenging times, laughter can be a powerful ally.

With his upcoming performance at Yuk Yuk’s, Rabbi Rotenberg hopes to continue this dialogue, encouraging audiences to find joy and meaning in their shared experiences. As he puts it, “When we can laugh, we can also heal.”