Overview
- The Concertgebouw terminated its agreement for the Dec. 14 event after months of talks failed to replace lead singer Shai Abramson.
- Managing Director Simon Reinink called the move an exceptional departure from artistic freedom, saying Abramson is a visible representative of the Israeli military during a controversial war.
- The Hanukkah Concert Foundation labeled the decision a violation of religious freedom, defended Abramson as an independent musician and reservist, and said it will sue.
- The foundation says it assumes the concert will still proceed with Abramson as it pursues litigation, while the venue has removed the listing from its website.
- Israel’s ambassador to the Netherlands condemned the cancellation, as the Concertgebouw stressed it wants to remain welcoming to the Jewish community during a period of rising antisemitism.