The TanenbaumCHAT experience of Naomi Reich ’23 was greatly enriched by her involvement in theatrical pursuits. So for her parents, Mara and Pablo Reich, endowing the Dramatic Arts award was a perfect way to honour Naomi’s time at the school. We sat down with them to hear a little more about their decision.
Why did you establish this award?
When we attended Naomi’s graduation ceremony last year, we noticed that the Dramatic Arts award did not have an endowment. Since Naomi truly enjoyed the dramatics arts program during her TanenbaumCHAT years and our family is a big fan of all things theatre, we thought it would be a perfect opportunity for a legacy gift to the school. We hope this endowment will encourage students who excel in the dramatic arts to pursue their dreams after graduation.
We hope this endowment will encourage students who excel in the dramatic arts to pursue their dreams.”
Tell us a little about the family connection to TanenbaumCHAT.
We have been connected to TanenbaumCHAT since 2007. Upon moving to Toronto, Mara started working at TanenbaumCHAT as a Modern Languages and Drama teacher. She not only enjoyed her daily work as a teacher and as the Modern Languages Department Head, but she also had the pleasure of producing three successful musicals during her time at the school. When Naomi finished elementary school at Leo Baeck Day School, we thought TanenbaumCHAT would be an excellent option for her and she started Grade 9 in 2020. In Grade 12, she played Sharpay in High School Musical, which was an enriching and meaningful experience that she will cherish for years to come.
Why support TanenbaumCHAT?
We have always been committed to supporting Jewish education in Toronto and we are grateful for the quality of education Naomi received while she was a student at TanenbaumCHAT. With our gift, we would like to play a part in recognizing the relevance of dramatic arts at TanenbaumCHAT. We are inspired and humbled by the many generous donors who have supported the school over the years and we are proud to help continue this commitment to Jewish education for future generations.
