Reach Out Of The Darkness Tuesday 16 August
Visit to Jaffa's unique Na'Laga'at Center where the blind and the deaf are the stars on stage and off. Na'Laga'at (Please Touch!) was conceived by Adina Tal after she was asked to conduct a workshop with a group of deaf-blind actors. It was established as a non-profit organization and a touring company. The show Not By Bread Alone is a series of stories told by the actors and, after the show, the audience is invited up onto the stage to communicate with the actors, creating an exceptional encounter. One of the actresses says, "It is important that someone shakes my hand. That is how I know he exists."
Before the show we will have a light supper in the kosher Café Kapich served by waiters who are deaf or hearing-impaired. Diners are encouraged to communicate with the waiters by sign language, facial expressions, gestures, or the markers and dry erase boards on the tables. The program is suitable for English and Hebrew speakers of all ages.

Cost Early Bird: NIS 175 After 14/7/2011: NIS 185
Depart: 5.30pm Young Israel/5.45pm Kikar Return: 11.00pm

Into the Darkness Monday 29 August
Our first stop will be the Israel Guide Dog Center for the Blind on the beautiful Beit Oved Campus. Established in 1991, the Center enables blind and visually-impaired Israelis to achieve independence, mobility and self esteem. Puppies are bred here and raised by foster families for one year when they are tested for suitability as guide dogs.

Once matched with a blind person, both dog and owner attend a training course. We will be able to see the dogs at work, speak to some of the blind people who are learning to work with them and perhaps find out what it feels like to put your trust entirely in a dog who is leading you in the busy streets of Israel. The dogs are gorgeous and will steal your hearts, but unfortunately you will have to say goodbye to them when we leave.

Following on, our next stop will give you an amazing chance to experience firsthand what it is like to be without sight. Dialogue In The Dark is an international project that has visited locations all round the globe. Imagine that as one of a small group of people you enter a dark hall and nothing is visible. You are feeling your way and completing simple tasks that are so easy for a sighted person. The guide leading you through the darkness is blind and what happens in there will be one of the most intensely moving experiences you will ever have. No one ever forgets what is seen there!

Bring your own picnic. Drinks are available to buy at the museum cafeteria.
Cost: NIS 165 After 24/7/2011: NIS 175
Depart: 8.00am Young Israel/8.15am Kikar Return: 15.30pm