Passover in a pandemic: Drive-thru story of Exodus

Passover in a pandemic requires some creativity.

Several local Chabad Jewish centers are making the ancient story of the Exodus exciting and new again in “Freedom” a drive-thru interactive experience with live animals, actors, and special effects from March 21-23 at 4000 Town Center in Southfield.

It’s amazing, something really special,” Rabbi Bentzi Geisinsky of the Chabad of Bingham Farms said. “I don’t think Moses ever came to Michigan before, but he will be here now.”

Visitors to “Freedom” will see the various stages of Moses’ life portrayed from infancy to leading the Jewish people, including escape from oppression in Egypt under King Pharaoh, 10 godly plagues and through the Red Sea to climbing Mt. Sinai to receive the 10 Commandments from God.

“It’s the story of how the Jewish nation was born,” Geisinsky said, “It’s not just a story of oppression, but where in our lives do we have limitations and how do we break free from our own demons.”

The production is a unique entertainment created by the Power of Youth, based in Los Angeles and sponsored by Chabad Lubavitch of Michigan.

Rabbi JJ Duchman, producer, said the company put “Freedom” together for the Jewish community “and beyond,” with all welcome to learn about Passover in a COVID-safe experience that will be enjoyed entirely from their vehicles.

“We’re anticipating 500 to 600 cars, in which passengers will enjoy a whimsical drive-through experience to see what Jewish ancestors did thousands of years ago,” he said.

Each vehicle, with up to eight guests, will receive do-ityourself Seder kits which include interactive items.

Cost per vehicle is $65. To learn more and register for a 30minute time slot, visit www.freedomdetroit.com.