Stephanie Munoz / Contributing Photographer
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Ivri Lider, the Israeli pop-rock sensation, performed live last Thursday in the Mandela Room. The anticipation of the audience was evident, with about 200 people anxiously awaiting Lider’s arrival. He is a singer/songwriter known for his new generation songs that speak about the recent state of Israel. He has won numerous awards in Israel including “Lyricist of the Year,” “Male Singer of the Year,” “Best Male Singer” and “Best Live Show.”

Lider’s fans love him for his talent and the huge impact he has had in Israel, and now the United States. (His smoldering good looks don’t hurt either.) He also made the soundtrack for the triumphant Israeli movie, “Walk on Water,” along with publishing a book of poems he has written.

Junior Benjamin Kelaty said he came to the concert to find out what the hype surrounding Lider was all about. “A lot of my friends told me that this guy is really popular in Israel and it’s only five bucks,” he said.

As soon as Ivri Lider made his entrance, he was welcomed by applause and cheers. At the beginning of his first song, audience members stood up to dance in the middle of the room. Even though most of the songs were in Hebrew, and as he even mentioned, most of the people there didn’t speak it, the catchy rhythm kept the audience hanging on his every foreign word. He did sing three songs in English, one of which will be released next January. Lider introduced another by saying it was about “seeing a tank down the street, in a beautiful way … just going.”

The concert was sponsored by Hillel, Israel at Heart and the Rainbow Pride Union in an effort to create a fun and culturally rich experience for all in attendance. And for those who came out for the show, it was truly a unique experience, as Lider is only making a few stops on his U.S. tour.

“He is an incredible musician and this is his first U.S. tour,” said Davina Kevelson, coordinator of the concert. “We are so lucky to have him here, thanks to the support of the RPU and Hillel.”