Miki Peled, Legendary Israeli Festigal Producer, Laid to Rest at 87

Miki Peled, the renowned Israeli producer and artist manager best known for his work on Festigal and the Hasidic Song Festival, has passed away at the age of 87. He was laid to rest at the Kiryat Shaul cemetery. Peled was a recipient of the ACUM Lifetime Achievement Award and was widely respected for his visionary contributions to Israeli music and culture.

His son, Yaron Peled, delivered a heartfelt eulogy, recalling his father's entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to family despite difficult years. Yaron described how his father’s business acumen was evident from his early days in Israel, sharing a story about repeatedly selling a donkey that kept returning to him. He expressed gratitude for the family unity they eventually achieved.

Director and pantomime artist Hanokh Rozen praised Peled’s grand creative vision, recalling how Peled enthusiastically supported ambitious ideas for Festigal shows, describing him as a "child at heart and a sophisticated producer." Actor Tal Mosseri, who credited Peled with opening the door to Israel’s most prestigious stage, called him a father figure and close friend, mourning his passing and remembering his last visit backstage at Festigal.

Other artists, including Oded Paz and Shashi Keshet, also paid tribute, highlighting Peled’s immense influence on Israeli culture and music. Keshet noted Peled’s role in building a cultural empire and his lasting legacy through countless songs and productions. Condolences were extended to Peled’s wife, Tami, who was also his partner in the business, and the family, who surrounded him with love.

Miki Peled’s death marks the loss of a towering figure in Israeli entertainment, whose work shaped generations and whose memory will live on through the music and festivals he helped create.