Jewish texts have long been set to rhythm. Be it the particular cadence with which the Torah or haftarah portions are read aloud or the various biblical sections arranged in stanzas, there is often a meter implied in the verses.

What’s more, with the soaring popularity of hip-hop, many of today’s most salient Jewish artists have found success in marrying textual themes to heavy beats and freestyle lyrics. Matisyahu, rapper Kosha Dillz, and others have made successful entrée into the commercial scene, but few, to date, have tried to capitalize on religious verses’ musical qualities in the classroom.

Registration is open at the Kaplen JCC on the Palisades in Tenafly for spring classes, both morning and evening, and open to non-members. Among classes are acrylic painting, basic drawing and sketching, springtime watercolor painting, knitting, and bridge. Private lessons are offered for some activities as well. For information, call (201) 569-7900, or visit www.jcconthepalisades.orgwww.jcconthepalisades.org.

Ethan Haberfield Shirley Grant Management

The Kaplen JCC on the Palisades in Tenafly presents “It’s Me, the Superhero – the Musical,” on Sunday, March 21, at 11:30 a.m. The show for children of all ages has a cast of 18, including Ethan Haberfield of Tenafly, who was recently cast as Michael in “Mary Poppins” on Broadway, in the title role; and Kirrilee Berger of Teaneck, who has played Jane in “Mary Poppins” on the national tour.

The score was composed by Glenn Gordon from “Forbidden Broadway” with lyrics by Amelia DeMayo and book by Deborah Roberts, of the JCC.

Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door. For information, call (201) 569-7900, ext. 1493, or www.jccotp.org. The show will be performed at BergenPAC on May 2 at 4 p.m.

In Mark Altman’s play “Sin,” at the Baruch Performing Arts Center’s Rose Nagelberg Theatre, Satan, played by Grant James Varjas, describes himself as “the party not in power.” As the loyal opposition, he displays a Republican determination to bring things to a screeching halt. He’s furious at human beings for monopolizing God’s attention, and contemptuous of their piffling sins. Where are the real sinners like Cain, who wasn’t afraid to lie to God’s face, Satan demands.

Altman’s adaptation of Isaac Bashevis Singer’s short story “The Unseen,” directed by Kent Paul, puts the devil at the center of the action. Not only is Satan the most interesting character, but in many ways, he’s the most poignant.

Steven Ezratty of Fair Lawn, president of Temple Beth Sholom, will discuss and sign copies of his new book, “One in a Minyan-Memoirs of a Son’s Year in Mourning,” on Wednesday, March 17, from 7 to 9 p.m., at the Fair Lawn shul. Refreshments served. For information, call (201) 797-9321.

Gilda’s Club North- ern New Jersey will host its 11th annual “Laugh Off!” grand finale on Thursday, April 8, at 7 p.m. at Bananas Comedy Club in Hasbrouck Heights. In honor of the late Gilda Radner of “Saturday Night Live,” the clubhouse’s signature comedy competition has become one of the most popular events and fundraisers for Gilda’s Club members and volunteers. Last year’s finale was sold out.

Tickets are $40 plus the purchase of one drink/menu item and are available by calling Gilda’s Club at (201) 457-1670. Proceeds benefit Gilda’s Club NNJ. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Laugh Off! is coordinated by Paterson native and comedienne Sunda Croonquist (http://www.sundalive.com). For information, call Stephanie Buonarota at (201) 457-1670 ext. 123 or www.gildasclubnnj.org

Being an outsider forms you as a writer,” says singer/songwriter Janis Ian, who spoke with The Jewish Standard this week in advance of her April 21 performance in Woodbridge.

And, says the nine-time Grammy nominee, that “outsider” status is what Jews and songwriters have in common.

Throughout her long career — she wrote her first song at age 12 — Ian’s songs have reflected that sensibility.

Her most popular single, “At Seventeen,” which reached the number one spot on the adult contemporary chart in 1975, chronicles the pain and isolation of unpopular teenagers. “Tattoo,” which appeared on her “Breaking Silence” album in 1993 and was recorded at the Schouwburg Concordia in Holland, explores the inner landscape of a Holocaust survivor who can never overcome the trauma of imprisonment.