Yiddish Films: Laugh! Cry! Learn!

The Sholem Community and Workmens Circle/Arbeter Ring present a series of five rarely-seen Yiddish films — restored prints, some newly scored, and all with English subtitles.  These films offer an opportunity to relive the greatness of Yiddish theater and literature, as adapted to the screen by prominent stars, some who would later go on to Hollywood and television. 

The screenings will be followed by discussions led by Yiddish scholars, including Dr. Robert Adler Peckerar, executive director of Yiddishkayt and Hershl Hartman, Sholems education director and organizer of this seminar series.  They note that over 80% of American Jews descend from Yiddish-speaking families and yet know little about the amazing treasures of Yiddish culture created by their forebears. 

These films document a vibrant, Jewish culture filled with love, action, humor and joy which stands in contrast to the everyday associations of European Jewish life as being one of hardships and tragedy. The first film in the series, EAST AND WEST (Austria, 1923,) is a silent comedy classic that deals specifically with the clash between the traditional Eastern European shtetl and modern American cultures.  

The series continues on Sundays, November 10 and December 8, 2013, January 26 and February 9, 2014.  Doors open at 10:00 am; program begins at 10:15.  $15 per screening; $50 for the series.  Bagels and coffee served. 

Sholem’s secular Sunday school teaches children 5-14 about the history, culture and values of the Jewish people.  Parents interested in having their child/ren try out a class, should contact Sholem’s principal Julie Gamberg <julie at sholem .org> 

For full schedule of film series and more info, visit: www.sholem.org.