Seminal TV personality, composer and comedian Steve Allen once said, “Tragedy plus time equals comedy.” How do people make others laugh when they are still in the deepest throes of terrible events? For example, how do the likes of Yossi Tarablus and Noa Manor go out and crack jokes right now – when we are all traumatized by the latest massacre and plight of our hostages, and while IDF soldiers are battling the enemy in Gaza? Tarablus has no neat answer. However, as experienced as he is, he works to bring light to anxious souls and provide brief joy from the pain.
For Tarablus and his colleagues, the challenge is extreme. They aren’t trained therapists, that’s why they are struggling to cope with the situation. The art of comedy now is a matter of basic emotional survival for them. Comedians like Tarablus and Manor work to provide emotional respite by going beyond their entertaining role, interacting closely with soldiers, evacuees, and children.
They have to be the focus of light for these people. Tarablus believes that comedy helps in activating hundreds of muscles. This helps the consumer, but what about the practitioner? They have to be aware of their emotional health and protect themselves to be useful. For Manor, performing for soldiers and evacuees has made her feel more connected with her people and a sense of collective endeavor.
Comedians like Tarablus and Manor are spending time with soldiers, evacuees and are in the hospital. They are doing so out of their own pockets and need financial assistance to continue. If you are interested in helping, you can at: https://www.jgive.com/new/en/ils/donation-targets/113838/about.
This type of aid can help bring a little comic relief around the country, to those who need it most. Although things may not be particularly jolly right now, sometimes laughter could be the best medicine.
