Mizel Arts and Culture 2023 - 2024

2023 - 2024 FULL SEASON SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

September 12 - 13

The Awakened Way with Suzanne Giesemann

September 27

State of Play: An Evening with Dan Abrams

October 9 - 13

Jewish Book Sale

October 9

Dini Klein, Prep + Rally: An Hour of Prep, A Week of Delicious Meals

October 11

Thom Shanker, Age of Danger

October 25

The Braid presents True Colors

October 27 - November 19

Cherry Creek Theatre and the JCC Mizel Arts and Culture Center present Sondheim on Sondheim

November 1

Jean Meltzer, Kissing Kosher: A Novel

November 7

21st Annual Fred & Audrey Friedman Marcus

Holocaust Lecture

November 9 - 12

Annual Ceramics Sale

November 17 - 19

ReelAbilities Film Festival

Denver Children’s Theatre presents Tomás and the Library Lady

February 26 - April 18

Tight Five Class

March 9 - 17

Denver Jewish Film Festival

March 26

Christopher C. Gorham, The Confidante: The Untold Story of the Woman Who Helped Win WWII and Shape Modern America

April 18

Judy Carter with The Tight Five

May 1

William Cooper, Stress Test: How Donald Trump Threatens

Democracy

May 2

Avourneen

Wolf Theatre Academy Youth Summer Programs

WTA Mainstage

June 3 – 30

Mean Girls High School Version (Musical)

July 8 – 28

The Play that Goes Wrong

WTA jr.

June 3 – 14

Finding Nemo jr. (Musical)

June 17 – 28

James and the Giant Peach (Play)

July 8 – 19

Descendents: The Musical

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Here at the JCC Mizel Arts and Culture Center (MACC), we are thrilled to offer unique and engaging programming to both the Jewish community in Denver, and Denver community at large. Each program is carefully chosen to entertain, educate, and sometimes even challenge our patrons when they walk in the doors. Ticket sales help to cover the costs of producing the events, but we still rely on grants, sponsorships, and donations from people like you to help keep the MACC running year after year!

$25,000

Sponsorship covers the booking fees for a headlining JAAMM presenter

$18,000

Sponsorship covers the cost of hiring actors and production staff for the Denver Children’s Theatre production

$10,000

Sponsorship covers the cost of booking seven films for Denver Jewish Film Festival

$7,500

Sponsorship covers the cost of speaker fees and accessibility resources (ASL interpretation, Audio Description, etc.) for ReelAbilities Film Festival: Denver

$5,000

Sponsorship covers the cost of Wolf Theatre Academy script rights and royalties for the summer season

$2,500

Sponsorship covers the cost of travel and hospitality for a single Jewish Book Council speaker

*Donations can be made to the organization or any program at any level!

BECOME A SPONSOR

Box Office

Make your reservations early to ensure the best seat selection!

See the individual event descriptions for ticket pricing and seating information.

Ticket and seat exchanges are allowed up to one hour prior to the event.

Box Office Hours

Monday: 12:00 - 5:00 pm

Tuesday: Closed

Wednesday: 12:00 - 5:00 pm

Thursday: 12:00 - 5:00 pm

303.316.6360 jccdenver.org/macc

Seating Policy: Seats for all “Reserved Seating” events can be selected at the time of purchase. Seats are reserved first-come, first-served at the

Friday: 12:00 - 5:00 pm and 1 hr before all events J P E R K S

P A S S

This annual membership program provides many opportunities including member-only experiences, access to special events at the JCC and Mizel Arts and Culture Center, and priority i tration for Camps and Engagement programs.

•

Se ries

FALL EVENTS

The Neustadt JAAMM Festival was endowed by Kathy Neustadt in 2014. A long-time JCC Denver Board member, Chairperson of the JCC Denver Board and current member of the JCC Mizel Arts and Culture Center Board of Directors, Kathy wanted to continue the legacy of literature and culture that her family has cultivated with two very prestigious international literature prizes.

The Neustadt International Prize for Literature is a biennial award for literature and is considered one of the most prestigious international literary prizes. This award is often compared with the Nobel Prize in

Literature, and referred to as the “American Nobel” because of its record of 30 laureates, candidates, or jurors who, in 42 years, have been awarded Nobel Prizes following their involvement with the Neustadt Prize. Like the Nobel, it is awarded not for any one work, but for an entire body of work. Since 2003, the NSK Neustadt Prize for Children’s Literature has been awarded every other year to a living writer or author-illustrator with significant achievement in children’s or young-adult literature.

THE AWAKENED WAY LECTURE SEPTEMBER 12

7:00 pm

The Elaine Wolf Theatre, Reserved Seating

$54

It’s possible to live lucidly, connecting consciously with Higher Consciousness and being divinely guided moment by moment. Join author and spiritual teacher Suzanne Giesemann as she shares “No Other Explanation” evidence of our interconnectedness—not just with each other, but with the one infinite Mind— and models how to live “The Awakened Way™” - a path to knowing who you are and why you’re here. Learn how to go from an emptiness that can’t be filled to a fullness that can’t be contained.

THE AWAKENED WAY WORKSHOP SEPTEMBER 13

9:00 am – 4:30 pm

Phillips Social Hall, General Admission

$162 ($182 with Lunch)

Spend the day with master instructor and evidential medium Suzanne Giesemann. Enjoy the perfect balance of evidential stories, theory, and proven practical exercises to live The Awakened Way™— consciously connected and divinely guided, moment to moment.

Learn more about Suzanne: suzannegiesemann.com

AT THE JCC MIZEL ARTS AND CULTURE CENTER

STATE OF PLAY: An Evening with

Dan Abrams

September 27

7:00 pm

The Elaine Wolf Theatre, Reserved Seating

$84

J Perks Pass holders receive 18% off all ticket & pass purchases. Learn more on page 4.

STATE OF PLAY: Renowned journalist and news anchor Dan Abrams shares his insights on the American political landscape in the runup to the 2024 general election amidst unprecedented turmoil, particularly against the backdrop of a former president’s mounting legal troubles. Abrams will take a deep dive into the circumstances surrounding the presidential campaigns, the Supreme Court, and will field questions from the audience in this not-to-be-missed evening of conversation and controversy.

Dan Abrams (Attorney, Author & ABC News Legal Analyst ) is the chief legal affairs correspondent for ABC News, host of Dan Abrams Live on NewsNation, host of The Dan Abrams Show: Where Politics Meets the

Law on SiriusXM’s POTUS channel, host and executive producer of Court Cam and Taking The Stand on A&E Network, and CEO and Founder of Abrams Media. He was previously the host of top-rated cable series Live PD on A&E Network, co-anchor of ABC’s Nightline, host of The Abrams Report and the acclaimed Verdict with Dan Abrams on MSNBC. Dan also served as General Manager of MSNBC, where he presided over a period of unprecedented growth, with ratings and profits each increasing well over 50% during his tenure. During that time Dan was also a member of the NBC Universal President’s Council.

A graduate of Duke and Columbia University Law School, Dan is also a recognized writer. He has published numerous articles in the New York Times and Wall Street Journal, in addition to The Yale Law and Policy Review, ABCNews.com, and Mediaite.com, among many others.

JEWISH BOOK SALE

October 9 – 13

1:00 – 5:00 pm

JCC Denver Main Lobby

The Jewish Book Sale returns to the JCC Main Lobby October 9–13. Titles from all our presented authors for the year will be available for purchase*. PLUS, our bargain book tables include a smattering of titles from past years. Come browse and learn about all upcoming authors for the season before walking out with a new book (or two)!

*Limited number of copies of each title for sale. Available while supplies last.

Dini Klein PREP + RALLY: An Hour of Prep, A Week of Delicious Meals

October 9

6:30 pm

Phillips Social Hall – JCC Denver, General Admission

$22

J Perks Pass holders receive 18% off all ticket & pass purchases. Learn more on page 4.

Meet Dini Klein, rising Instagram star and founder of the popular meal-prep service

Prep + Rally (@prepandrally)! Come learn about her new book, a guide to delicious, family-friendly meals with less stress, less expense, and minimal time. Stay for a book signing following the event!

At the end of a workday, when the whole family is hungry, who has the energy or time to put together a home-cooked meal? With Dini Klein’s brilliant Prep + Rally method, you do—all while saving money,

Thom Shanker AGE OF DANGER

saving time, and saving the stress of what’s for dinner.

In this inspired recipe collection, Klein shows you how just one hour of prep can result in four delicious, home-cooked weeknight meals, with one inexpensive weekly grocery bill. It’s easy: shop for the week, using Klein’s grocery list, spend one hour to Prep staple recipes, and use those staple recipes to quickly assemble creative and flavorful Rally meals that are sure to please the whole family.

Keeping America Safe in an Era of New Superpowers, New Weapons, and New Threats

October 11

7:00 pm

The Elaine Wolf Theatre, Reserved Seating

$27.50

J Perks Pass holders receive 18% off all ticket & pass purchases. Learn more on page 4.

American taxpayers pay for a national security machine that costs $1 trillion a year to operate, yet too often the U.S. government gets it wrong on critical issues. In a new book, Age of Danger: Keeping America Safe in an Era of New Superpowers, New Weapons, and New Threats, Thom Shanker and co-author Andrew Hoehn look at the major challenges facing America. The range from superpowers China and Russia to emerging threats like pandemics, cybersecurity, climate change, and drones. The

authors reimagine the national security apparatus – and expanding the definition of national security –to truly keep Americans safe.

In his talk, Mr. Shanker will draw on his 40-year career as a journalist on the front lines of history to describe not only what must be done across our government, but the obligation of every one of us to be part of an informed citizenry, engaged in these life-and-death issues facing our nation.

The Braid presents TRUE COLORS

October 25

7:00 pm

The Elaine Wolf Theatre, Reserved Seating

$58

J Perks Pass holders receive 18% off all ticket & pass purchases. Learn more on page 4.

True Colors is a salon theatre show in which Jews of Color share true stories about their yearning for belonging and the rich and complicated question that is identity. While all people face challenges and struggles, Jews of Color have many touching and unique stories to tell about resilience, self-respect, and celebrating the many colors and voices in our community.

The stories in True Colors, ostensibly about Jews who feel “different,” remind us how very much alike we are. Audiences will meet unforgettable characters who tell personal stories about how they see themselves and how others see them. Ironically, while many American Jews can reach consensus about a commitment to social justice for others, they do not always embrace diversity in their own community.

This enlightening show will explore the impact of living as Jews of Color when inclusion and equity are not always practiced within the Jewish community.

True Colors was created and produced by The Braid (formerly Jewish Women’s Theatre) as part of its Salon Theatre season in May 2019, with material curated and adapted by Ronda Spinak, directed by Susan Morgenstern, and co-produced by Eric Greene. For more information, visit the-braid.org.

True Colors will also perform on October 24, at 7:00pm in Levin Hall at the Boulder JCC. 6007 Oreg Ave, Boulder CO 80303 For more info and tickets, visit: boulderjcc.org

Cherry Creek Theatre and the JCC Mizel Arts and Culture Center present

SONDHEIM ON SONDHEIM

October 27 – November 19

Fridays and Saturdays - 7:30 pm, Sundays – 2:00 pm

Pluss Theatre

Adult: $42, Senior (65+): $38, Student: $26

Box Office: 303.800.6578 or CherryCreekTheatre.org

“Something familiar, something peculiar, something for everyone!” Stephen Sondheim redefined the Broadway musical through his genius lyrics, catchy melodies, and complex characters. More than a musical revue of his indelible five-decade career, Sondheim on Sondheim is an intimate portrait of the famed songwriter — his story and his inspiration in his own words. Get an inside look at Steve’s personal life, artistic process, and legacy through exclusive video interviews and performances of his exceptional songbook.

Experience the wisdom and wit of Jewish composer Stephen Sondheim and his myriad contributions to the American musical. Presented in partnership with the JCC Mizel Arts and Culture Center as part of the 2023–24 Neustadt JAAMM Series.

KISSING KOSHER : A Novel

November 1

6:30 pm

Phillips Social Hall – JCC Denver, General Admission

$22

J Perks Pass holders receive 18% off all ticket & pass purchases. Learn more on page 4.

Come for a delightful evening with Jean Meltzer as she enlightens us about her third novel, Kissing Kosher. Stick around for a Q&A and book signing following the conversation!

The heir to a kosher baked goods empire goes undercover at a family-owned Jewish bakery in

order to steal their world-famous Pumkin Spiced Babka recipe. But when garnering the secret recipe means drawing closer to the granddaughter working the counter – a woman struggling with intimacy issues due to chronic pelvic pain – both come to discover that the best recipe for love, intimacy, and babka... is the one you bake yourself.

ALEXANDRA ZAPRUDER

November 7

6:30 pm

The Elaine Wolf Theatre, Reserved Seating

$18

Holocaust survivors, educators, and students – Free (Contact: hai@du.edu, 303.871.3020)

The Holocaust Awareness Institute at the University of Denver’s Center for Judaic Studies welcomes acclaimed author and educator Alexandra Zapruder to present the 21st annual Fred & Audrey Friedman Marcus Holocaust Lecture. Zapruder’s 2002 book Salvaged Pages: Young Writers’ Diaries of the Holocaust is one of the most widely taught resources in Holocaust education for middle- and

high-school students. Zapruder, who was a member of the founding staff of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, will discuss the use of Salvaged Pages and primary sources in education. Following her presentation, she will participate in a moderated discussion and audience Q&A on the future of Holocaust education—now a pressing concern to schools across Colorado.

Jean Meltzer

21st Annual Fred & Audrey Friedman Marcus Holocaust Lecture Presents Author and Educator

ANNUAL CERAMICS SALE

November 9 - 12

JCC Denver Main Lobby

It’s back! Join us Thursday, November 9 through Sunday, November 12 at the JCC Denver for our much-anticipated annual Ceramics Sale. We will be featuring sculptural and functional ceramics from our talented JCC clay community. This is the perfect opportunity to get your holiday shopping done all while supporting local artisans.

The sale will be in the main lobby of the J during the following hours:

Thursday, November 9, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm

Friday, November 10, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Saturday, November 11, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Sunday, November 12, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Building skills and community through intimate Building skills and community through intimate classes and one-on-one instruction with classes and one-on-one instruction with professional artists. professional artists.

•• WHEEL THROWING WHEEL THROWING

•• HAND-BUILDING HAND-BUILDING

•• MIXED MEDIUM CLASSES MIXED MEDIUM CLASSES

VIEW OUR CLASSES & RENTALS

ARTS CULTURE EDUCATION

Survival & Witness traces the unique paths of Holocaust survivors who eventually made their way to Colorado, establishing a connection between the history and memory of the Holocaust and Colorado today.

Developed to support Colorado’s public school mandate for Holocaust and Genocide studies, Survival & Witness is tailored to the needs of Colorado public school teachers and students.

Explore the site at survivalandwitness.org | Contact us at

Cajardo Lindsay and Emily Paton Davies, A Moon for the Misbegotten (2023); photo by Brian Miller.

JCC Mizel Arts & Culture Center Resident Theatre Company

November 17 – 19

ALL FILMS ALSO AVAILABLE VIRTUALLY NOVEMBER 17 - 20

ReelAbilities Film Festival Denver is for everyone, including those with disabilities, disability advocates, artists, allies, and more. Hosting this international festival in Denver allows us to bring this programming to a local level and continue fostering partnerships with nearby organizations also doing incredible work to serve disability communities and advocates.

Tickets and passes are offered on a tiered sliding scale in our continued effort to make these programs as accessible as possible. Please self-select the tier at which your income allows you to contribute.

Closed Captioning (CC)

Tickets: Tier 1 - $6.50, Tier 2 - $11.50, Tier 3 - $17

All-access Passes: Tier 1 - $22, Tier 2 - $43, Tier 3 - $64

J Perks Pass holders receive 18% off all ticket & pass purchases. Learn more on page 4.

Heart and Soul Exhibition

ReelAbilities: Denver is thrilled to partner with Access Gallery to present Heart and Soul , an exhibition featuring works created through the Artistic Realization Technologies (A.R.T.) program. Founded over 25 years ago by visual artist Tim Lefens, A.R.T. empowers artists who have limited or no use of their hands to fully direct the artmaking process from start to finish. A person called a tracker is assigned to each artist to transfer their creative thoughts to the canvas. Facilitated painting using A.R.T. empowers artists to transcend physical limitations and share their creativity. Heart and Soul is free to view and will be on display in the Mizel Reception Room throughout the festival.

Open Captioning (OC)

Audio Description (AD)

Sign Language Interpretation

OPENING NIGHT

November

6:00 pm

17

The Elaine Wolf Theatre, Reserved Seating

Recommended for ages 18+

Access Gallery joins us before and after the films with artists ready to draw a caricature of you and your friends. Stick around after the films to view the Heart and Soul exhibit in the Mizel Reception Room and look through our community resource tables!

LONG LIVE MY HAPPY HEAD

Cancer

79 min, 2022, Directed by Austen McCowan, Will Hewitt

United Kingdom, English

What would you do if you were told you had a dramatically life-shortening illness when you were 32 years old? Start making comic books about it of course! A touching and unexpectedly uplifting love story about a Scottish comic book artist with a brain tumor and his new American boyfriend who uses his art to communicate not only his experiences with cancer, but the carers who look after others with the disease as well.

Preceeds LONG LIVE MY HAPPY HEAD

THE BODY IS A HOUSE OF FAMILIAR ROOMS

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

10 min, 2021, Directed by Eloise Sherrid, Lauryn Welch

United States, English

A magical-realist window into a man’s experience of chronic illness, mixing paintings with live-action documentary footage to explore his inner world and relationship with his partner.

Sponsored by JANE E ROSENBAUM

SHORT REELS, A COMPILATION

November 18

2:00 pm

The Elaine Wolf Theatre, Reserved Seating

Recommended for Ages 18+

THE MULTI

Deafness

BORDERLINE COFFEE

Borderline Personality Disorder

10 min, 2020, Directed by Jeff Ayars

United States, English

A young woman with crippling anxiety is taken on a journey when she sets out to accomplish what would seem to be a simple task: getting a cup of coffee.

18 min, 2022, Directed by Storm Smith, Mikail Chowdhury

United States, American Sign Language and English

An isolated Black Deaf woman has constructed a world of order to keep a childhood trauma buried deep in her psyche. Then an unexpected turn of events forces her to confront her demons from the past who threaten to destroy everything she has built. She tries to keep control of her life before it’s too late.

SINGLE

Amniotic Band Syndrome

14 min, 2020, Directed by Ashley Eakin

United Kingdom, English

Kim, who was born with one arm, gets set up on a blind date. When she finally meets Jake, she quickly realizes he also has a physical disability, and she is pissed. An unapologetic perspective on the complexities of being disabled and dating.

SHORT REELS, A COMPILATION

CONTINUED

November 18 2:00 pm

The Elaine Wolf Theatre, Reserved Seating

Recommended for Ages 18+

SECOND TIME

Deafness

4 min, 2020, Directed by Rafa Oliveira

Brazil, American Sign Language

A deaf couple chats at a party while everyone else observes the beginning of a beautiful love story. But is the conversation as innocent as it seems?

WHEELS

Muscular Dystrophy, Wheelchair User

6 min, 2022, Directed by Smari Gunn

Iceland, English

In Wheels we follow a master burglar who gets himself into a tight spot. He needs to improvise on the job when discovering the homeowner is in.

EXTRA SPECIAL

Cerebral Palsy, Chronic Illness, Neurodiverse

6 min, 2021, Directed by Luke Terrell

United States, English

In this humorous mockumentary, aspiring actor/model Andy Arias prepares to accept his tribute at the St. Louis Walk of Fame when a sudden mishap is revealed.

I’M SO FAR

Multiple Disabilities, Physical Disability

3 min, 2019, Directed by Leo Grandperret

France, French

Sponsored by:

Sometimes, things that seem simple… just aren’t. The trials of a senior with limited mobility trying to leave his home with the help of some friends.

FAMILY NIGHT!

November 18

6:00 pm

The Elaine Wolf Theatre, Reserved Seating

Recommended for ages 12+

Following the film, Phamaly Theatre Company’s Artistic Director, Ben Raanan, hosts a conversation with models, designers, creatives and allies working towards more inclusion in the fashion industry. Presented in partnership with Guided by Humanity and Denver Arts & Venues.

JASMINE IS A STAR

Albinism

60 min, 2022, Directed by Jo Rochelle

United States, English

CLOSING DAY

November 19

2:00 pm

The Elaine Wolf Theatre, Reserved Seating

Recommended for ages 15+

Jasmine Is A Star follows the journey of a determined 16-year-old with albinism (lack of pigment in the hair, skin, and eyes) who makes it her mission to become a professional model in her hometown of Minneapolis, while attempting to go unnoticed in every other aspect of her teenage life.

Following the film, join us and a panel of mental health professionals in a discussion about the injustices and hardships that took place in the documentary. Our panelists will host an open discussion on what both the city of Denver and state of Colorado are doing to change the way our criminal justice system works, what resources are being provided to those in mental health crisis, and what you as a friend, family member, or community member can do. The panel will include members from organizations such as NAMI Colorado and WellPower.

ANY GIVEN DAY

Mental Illness

93 min, 2021, Directed by Margaret Byrn

United States, English and Bulgarian with English Subtitles

A filmmaker with mental illness follows three defendants through a specialized mental health probation program. While sharing their rarely seen struggles, she faces her own challenges, making clear just how precarious the ties between people with mental illness, their families, and society can be.

November 19

6:00 pm

The Elaine Wolf Theatre, Reserved Seating

Recommended for ages 15+

NO BONE: SCARS OF SURVIVAL

Stroke Victim

90 min, 2020, Directed by Marc Schiller United States, English

With a long career promoting street art, music, and film as well as pioneering online marketing through social media, Marc Schiller was well regarded as a communications expert. But in 2015, he suffered a stroke on both sides of his brain, leaving him with a language impairment known as aphasia and with some cognitive deficits. From day one in the intensive care unit, his family (and then Marc himself) has been documenting his arduous recovery. No Bone is the culmination of Marc’s own chronicles of his battle towards recovery, as well as interviews with close friends, family, and colleagues including Alex Winter, JR, John Sloss, Richard Abramowitz, and Eugene Jarecki.

Preceeds NO BONE: SCARS OF SURVIVAL

BRAINSTORMS

Traumatic Brain Injury

16 min, 2022, Directed by Julie Pacino and Aron Meinhardt United States, English

PARTNERS:

SPONSORS:

Brainstorms is an experiential look inside the mind of Brian, a veteran who has sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI) during combat. JANE

ReelAbilities in Boulder!

Head to the Boulder J for more fantastic ReelAbilities films and programs.

CRIP CAMP: A DISABILITY REVOLUTION AND REELABILITIES LAUNCH PARTY

September 10

4:00 pm

Boulder JCC* - Levin Hall: 6007 Oreg Ave, Boulder CO 80303

FREE with pre-registration*

Please join us for a pre-program ReelAbilites launch party and social with light fare and refreshments! Director James Lebrecht will present a virtual talkback immediately preceding the screening.

CRIP CAMP: A DISABILITY REVOLUTION

Multiple Disabilities Featured 108 min, 2020, Directed by Nicole Newmhan and James Lebrecht

United States, English FREE

A groundbreaking summer camp for teens with disabilities proves so inspiring that a group of its alumni join the radical disability rights movement to advocate for historic legislative changes. Crip Camp is the story of one group of people and captures one moment in time.

In the early 1970s, teenagers with disabilities faced a future shaped by isolation, discrimination and institutionalization. Camp Jened, a ramshackle camp “for the handicapped” (a term no longer used) in the Catskills, exploded those confines. Jened was their freewheeling Utopia, a place with summertime sports, smoking and makeout sessions awaiting everyone, and campers experienced liberation and full inclusion as human beings. Their bonds endured as many migrated West to Berkeley, California — a hotbed of activism where friends from Camp Jened realized that disruption, civil disobedience, and political participation could change the future for millions.

*The MACC is not responsible for ticket sales at the Boulder JCC. Patrons must register and/or purchase tickets for all events hosted by the Boulder J through their website: boulderjcc.org

REELABILITIES IN BOULDER

December 3

12:00 – 7:00 pm

Boulder JCC* - Levin Hall

6007 Oreg Ave, Boulder CO 80303

$18 for all-day access

Come for three film screenings, an interactive activity, and stop by our resource tables while connecting with the community!

CHANGE

12:00 pm | Autism

5 min, 2022, Directed by Scott Klumb United States, English

Change is inevitable, but for autistic people, change can be felt more intensely than it can be for neurotypicals. Change has always been a struggle for Scott, but with his courage, the film Change shows how he navigated some of the most

significant changes of his life. And with one of the greatest changes, it brought on the most unexpected surprise.

Change features an autistic musician, Jennifer Msumba, with lyrics from her original song, Everything Keeps Changing, speaking to the story of this film.

THRIVING ON THE SPECTRUM

Autism

24 min, 2020, Directed by Scott Klumb

United States, English

Thriving on the Spectrum is a multi-award-winning documentary about the Denver-Metro area’s autism community in the face of this global challenge.

Multi-award-winning autistic filmmaker Scott Klumb jumped into this project with a sense of urgency and desire to capture the experience and the closeness of this community. Through intimate interviews with autistic individuals, teachers, employers, and

professionals, the complex emotional fabric of this marginalized population is clearly articulated.

This film employs a variety of visual and storytelling approaches that express the multifaceted needs, interests, and efforts of a tight-knit and dedicated human family. Thriving on the Spectrum is a film about the autistic community of which the filmmaker himself is a part. Scott’s genuine connection to the subject presents an authentic account that is at once vulnerable and resilient.

Join us for a talk back with Scott Klumb, Director of both films, following the screening.

Director Biography: Scott Klumb is a multi-award-winning filmmaker. He is a storyteller, cinematographer, and editor, knowledgeable in a wide array of film styles, including documentary, where he creates artistic films with meaningful stories to captivate his audience. Scott has found a passion for filmmaking, pursuing his talent both

professionally and in his free time. Scott’s films have been in dozens of festivals across the world. The notoriety has been encouraging but Scott’s primary focus is to encourage others and to continue his growth as a filmmaker.

*The MACC is not responsible for ticket sales at the Boulder JCC. Patrons must register and/or purchase tickets for all events hosted by the Boulder J through their website: boulderjcc.org

ANY GIVEN DAY

1:30 pm | Mental Illness

93 min, 2021, Directed by Margaret Byrn

United States, English and Bulgarian with English Subtitles

A filmmaker with mental illness follows three defendants through a specialized mental health probation program. While sharing their rarely seen struggles, she faces her own challenges, making clear just how precarious the ties between people with mental illness, their families, and society can be.

4:30 pm | Shorts Program with a discussion break at 5:30 pm with Rabbi Baruch Rosenberg

Discussion with Rabbi Baruch Rosenberg, a Yeshivat Hamivtar alumnus, Storahtelling Maven, and the founder and Spiritual Leader of Ohr HaOlam. Prior to Ohr HaOlam, Rabbi Rosenberg worked in Jewish Education serving the Temple Emanuel Denver Religious School

community for over a decade. Inspired by his interactions with various disabled students over the years, Rabbi Rosenberg established Ohr HaOlam as a new, virtual Jewish community dedicated to ensuring full inclusion of all disabled Jewish individuals in all aspects of Jewish life.

FULL PICTURE Physical Disability

12 min, 2020, Directed by Jacob Reed

United States, English

Santina has been in a wheelchair since she was six years old. With meetings, hangouts, and classes happening virtually due to the coronavirus quarantine, she’s experiencing something new—choosing when (or if) to disclose her disability.

SINGLE

Amniotic Band Syndrome

14 min, 2020, Directed by Ashley Eakin

United Kingdom, English

Kim, who was born with one arm, gets set up on a blind date. When she finally meets Jake, she quickly realizes he also has a physical disability, and she is pissed. An unapologetic perspective on the complexities of being disabled and dating.

HAL & MINTER

Parkinson’s Disease

24 min, 2020, Directed by Ram Devineni

United States, English

Hal Sirowitz has Parkinson’s disease. At one time one of the most popular poets in the United States, he was a regular on MTV and one of the original performers at the Nuyorican Poets’ Cafe. Hal and

his partner, the writer Minter Krotzer, have become advocates for people with Parkinson’s disease and their families. A funny and uplifting story about being a creative couple and finding your voice.

I’M SO FAR

Multiple Disabilities, Physical Disability

3 min, 2019, Directed by Leo Grandperret

France, French

Sometimes, things that seem simple… just aren’t. The trials of a senior with limited mobility trying to leave his home with the help of some friends.

NICK LIGHTNING

Autism, ADHD

26 min, 2022, Directed by Pat Taggart

United States, English

The story of Nick Fergus, aka Nick Lightning, is a heartwarming tale about a Philadelphia man who was born with a disability that doctors could not define until he was diagnosed with Autism at age 44. Music was always front and center to Nick so he decided to become a rock star and created his

alter ego as Nick Lightning at age 15. While never possessing true musical talent and unable to learn such, he performs with passion, energy, and enthusiasm. Nick’s fun personality and constant expression of gratitude make him one of the most special people you’ll ever meet.

The Boulder JCC is grateful to their sponsors:

Denver Children’s Theatre presents TOMÁS AND THE LIBRARY LADY

Tomás, the son of migrant farm workers, meets a librarian who introduces him to the wonderful world of books. The stories enrich the lives of Tomás’ family and instill a love of reading. This is the inspiring true story of Tomás Rivera, who grew up in a migrant worker family, befriended a librarian in Iowa, and learned to love books and the places they took him. Tomás went on to a successful career in academia and became the chancellor of the University of California, Riverside. Adapted from the well-loved book written by Pat Mora, this play can be readily understood by both English and Spanish speakers.

February 8 - March 1

School Performances: Weekdays (No Performances

February 19 & 20)

10:00 am and 12:00 pm

Join us on February 21 for our Accessibility Day! Both 10:00 am and 12:00 pm performances will offer ASL interpretation, Audio Description, and be sensory friendly. If your students need any other accommodations, please mention during booking and we will do our best to facilitate your needs.

Please email the Box Office at boxoffice@jccdenver.org, for school ticket price information, and to reserve seats for your school or class!

Public Performances - February 11, 18*, 25

10:00 am

The Elaine Wolf Theatre, Reserved Seating

$11.50

J Perks Pass holders receive 18% off all ticket & pass purchases. Learn more on page 4.

LLady ibrary and the Tomás

*Join us on February 18 for our Accessibility Day! The performance will offer ASL interpretation, Audio Description, and be sensory friendly. If you need any other accommodations, please contact the box office at least two weeks before the performance and we will do our best to facilitate your needs.

denver children’s theatre

Adapted by José Cruz González. From the book by Pat Mora.

Produced by special arrangement with The Dramatic Publishing Company of Woodstock, Illinois. The Dramatic Publishing Company. Reprinted by permission.

The 28th annual Denver Jewish Film Festival returns in March 2024! Keep an eye out for the lineup to be announced in January 2024, with tickets and passes going on sale

January 22!

J Perks Pass holders receive 18% off all ticket & pass purchases. Learn more on page 4.

Se ries

SPRING EVENTS

The Neustadt JAAMM series rolls into spring with another lineup of events and performances!

WIESENTHAL

January 18 - 19

Public Performance: January 18, 7:00 pm

The Elaine Wolf Theatre, Reserved Seating

$58

J Perks Pass holders receive 18% off all ticket & pass purchases. Learn more on page 4.

School Performances: January 18 – 19, 10:00 am

Grades 6-12 | Please email the box office at boxoffice@jccdenver.org, for school ticketing information and to reserve a spot for your school or class.

Wiesenthal, a one man play by Tom Dugan. On the day of his retirement the famed “Nazi Hunter” Simon Wiesenthal welcomes one final group of students to his Jewish Documentation Center in Vienna, Austria. With warmth, wit and surprising humor this charming man, known as “The Conscience of the Holocaust,” recounts the remarkable story of how, after cheating death at the hands of Hitler’s dreaded S.S., he dedicated his life to tracking down and bringing to justice the greatest mass murderers in human history. While packing up his files on this April afternoon in 2003, Wiesenthal (affectionately called “The Jewish James Bond”) recounts, like a gripping spy thriller, how he solved his most sensational cases. Unmasking such notorious villains as Franz Stangl, the Treblinka death camp commandant, Franz Murer, “The Butcher of Wilna,” and the infamous “Architect of the Holocaust,” Adolph Eichmann. At days end it’s time for this 20th-century hero to finally leave the war behind and go home to his wife Cyla, but not before warning his young friends that, although progress has been made since the dark days of Nazi Germany, the human savage still lurks just below this wafer-thin veil of civilization.

“Powerful. Insightful. Moving. Heartbreaking and beautiful.”

-

Ken Jaworowski,

The New York Times

THE “TIGHT FIVE”: Standup Comedy Writing for Grown Ups

February 26 - April 18

Age: 18+ | Rehearsals: Mondays, 6:00 – 8:00 pm,

Performances: Wednesday, April 17 & Thursday, April 18

Elaine Wolf Theatre – JCC Denver

$240 - Guest, $200 - J Perks Pass Member

Have your friends and family constantly been telling you how funny you are? Or that your particular brand of comedy is destined for greatness...or the opposite? Well, here’s your chance to prove everyone wrong (or right)! This class will lead participants through guided comedy writing lessons, led by Mizel Arts and Culture Center General Manager Rich Cowden, and culminate in each wannabe comic performing a “tight five” minute standup set at the Elaine Wolf Theatre in front of those same friends and family members.

The class uses the most influential how-to book in all of standup as a text— “The Comedy Bible” by comedy legend Judy Carter. In 2024, Judy herself will be the headliner for the Tight Five performance and students will get the chance to be her opening acts! Proceeds from the Tight Five performances continue to be donated to the Robert E. Loup Scholarship Fund, which provides financial assistance to allow traditionally underserved students to attend the Wolf Theatre Academy program.

Christopher C. Gorham

THE CONFIDANTE:

The Untold Story of the Woman Who Helped Win WWII and Shape Modern America

March 26

6:30 pm

Phillips Social Hall – JCC Denver, General Admission

$22

J Perks Pass holders receive 18% off all ticket & pass purchases. Learn more on page 4. Come meet author Christopher C. Gorham and hear him talk about the intricacies of writing his new book, The Confidante. Stick around following the lecture for a Q&A session and book signing!

Perfect for readers of A Woman of No Importance, Three Ordinary Girls, and Eleanor: A Life comes the first-ever biography of Anna Marie Rosenberg, the Hungarian Jewish immigrant who became FDR’s closest advisor during World War II and, according to Life, “the most important official woman in the world” —a woman of many firsts, whose story,

forgotten for too long, is extraordinary, inspiring, and uniquely American. Her life ran parallel to the front lines of history yet her influence on 20th century America, from the New Deal to the Cold War and beyond, has never before been told.

As Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s special envoy to Europe in World War II she went where the president couldn’t go. She was among the first Allied women to enter a liberated concentration camp, and stood in the Eagle’s Nest, Hitler’s mountain retreat, days after its capture. She guided the direction of the G.I. Bill of Rights and the Manhattan Project. Though Anna Rosenberg emerged from modest immigrant beginnings, equipped with only a high school education, she was the real power behind national policies critical to America winning the war and prospering afterward. Astonishingly, her story remains largely forgotten.

JUDY CARTER WITH THE TIGHT FIVE April 18

7:00 pm

The Elaine Wolf Theatre, Reserved Seating

$39

J Perks Pass holders receive 18% off all ticket & pass purchases. Learn more on page 4.

Judy Carter is a comedy icon and doesn’t like to brag but she did write the Bible! No joke – The New Comedy Bible, the top selling book on the how-to of comedy. Judy has coached some the top comics working today, including Seth Rogen, Hannah Gatsby, and Maz Jobrani.

Judy’s career started as a magician where she sawed men in half until an airline lost her luggage. Having to go on, she quickly discovered standup comedy and traveling with carryon. As a headlining comic for 17 years, Judy toured with Prince and performed on over 100 TV shows as well as 4 HBO/Showtime comedy specials.

Judy joins us at the MACC to show us, and our Tight Five students, how it’s done!

William Cooper STRESS TEST:

How Donald Trump Threatens Amercian Democracy

May 1

6:30 pm

Phillips Social Hall – JCC Denver, General Admission

$22

Join us as author William Cooper does a deep dive into his book, Stress Test,and stick around for a Q&A session and book signing following the lecture!

A frenzy of misbehavior and misjudgment currently threatens the American polity. Donald Trump is the center of the storm. His words, deeds and basic instincts are fundamentally at odds with America’s

Backyard Summer Kick-off featuring AVOURNEEN

May 2

6:30 pm

long-held essential ideals. But Trump isn’t the only problem. Many of his friends, and plenty of his foes, also consistently violate important norms and traditions while seeking short-term political victories. This bipartisan race to the bottom is a stress test of the world’s preeminent constitutional democracy. It continues today.

This collection of columns, previously published in newspapers around the world, looks at two things through the lens of the law: The presidency of Donald J. Trump and the response to the presidency of Donald J. Trump.

The Backyard – JCC Denver, General Admission

$27.50

J Perks Pass holders receive 18% off all ticket & pass purchases. Learn more on page 4.

What’s a better way to kick off Summer than with a backyard concert? Join us for music from local band Avourneen, snacks, patio games, and more!

Avourneen (pronounced a-VORE-neen), a Denver-based trio that specializes in Irish folk, but doesn’t have direct geographic ties to Ireland. The band is composed of guitarist/vocalist Adam Goldstein, a Denver native; violinist CL Morden, an import from California; and Kenny Martinez, a longtime Colorado resident and talented bassist. Together, they play a brand of Celtic music that’s both timeless and innovative, a take on the genre the Celtic Connection calls “unique in Colorado – and perhaps in the country.”

The three members of Avourneen boast long résumés playing Irish, Scottish and Breton music. Before forming in 2014, Adam and CL were playing age-old tunes from Ireland professionally, while Kenny had built a vast repertoire of pop, jazz and folk music playing in a diverse set of bands. Goldstein (who claims the of moniker “Denver’s Favorite Irish Jew”) has long been a fixture at Denver’s Clocktower Cabaret and other local venues, where he plays Irish folk songs for the club’s popular burlesque and variety shows. Morden, a classically trained violinist who earned a bachelor’s from the prestigious Lamont School of Music at the University of Denver, has experience as a member of the Denver Philharmonic Orchestra and other orchestral ensembles. Martinez, meanwhile, is a veteran of area rock, pop, and jazz bands.

VOLUNTEER AT THE MACC

Support the MACC by giving the gift of time! Our programs would not run without our wonderful volunteers. Sign up for our Volunteer Program today by scanning the QR code above. Our volunteers can do a wide array of duties; anything from film selection and adjudication to selling art during exhibits! Whatever your interest, you’ll find something to love at the Mizel Arts and Culture Center.

One of Denver’s most acclaimed youth theatre programs, offering opportunities to work alongside professional theatre artists and be part of award-winning productions that are open to everyone. Performance students will develop acting, singing, and dancing techniques in an intensive rehearsal schedule that culminates in sold-out performances in the Elaine Wolf Theatre. Technical students spend their days building and creating all of the elements in the world the actors perfom in. For all the theater aficionados out there, this is your time to shine!

Wolf THEATRE ACADEMY

WOLF THEATRE ACADEMY SUMMER PROGRAMS*

June 3 – August 4

*All titles subject to change based on availability

J Perks Pass holders receive both early and discounted registration. Learn more on page 4.

WTA MAINSTAGE – Entering Grades 8 - 12

Performance and Technical programs available for both shows!

MEAN GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL VERSION

(Musical)

June 3 - 30

Cady Heron may have grown up on an African savanna, but nothing prepared her for the wild and vicious ways of her strange new home: suburban Illinois. How will this naïve newbie rise to the top of the popularity pecking order? By taking on The Plastics, a trio of lionized frenemies led by the charming but ruthless Regina George. But when Cady and her friends devise a “Revenge Party” to end Regina’s reign, she learns the hard way that you can’t cross a Queen Bee without getting stung.

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG

July 8 - 28

From Mischief, Broadway masters of comedy, comes this smash hit farce. Welcome to opening night of the Cornley University Drama Society’s newest production, The Murder at Haversham Manor, where things are quickly going from bad to utterly disastrous. This 1920s whodunit has everything you never wanted in a show—an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can’t play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines). Nevertheless, the accidentprone thespians battle against all odds to make it through to their final curtain call, with hilarious consequences! Part Monty Python, part Sherlock Holmes, this Olivier Award–winning comedy is a global phenomenon that’s guaranteed to leave you aching with laughter!

WTA JR. – Entering Grades 4 - 7

DISNEY’S FINDING NEMO JR.

(Musical)

June 3 - 14

Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his kid Nemo, who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. With the help of lovable characters such as optimistic Dory, laid-back sea turtle Crush, and the supportive Tank Gang, Marlin and Nemo both overcome challenges on their journey to find each other and themselves.

JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH

(Play)

June 17 - 28

A magical peach! An imprisoned boy! Insect friends! An incredible journey! This amazing adventure of James Henry Trotter will fulfill the fantasy of anyone who has ever dreamed of escape. Roald Dahl’s story comes hilariously to life in this delightful dramatization that reveals the wickedness of some, the goodness of others, and the indecision encountered by many when they are faced with crises. You will see James (as he cleverly gets the Peach out of danger), the wise Old-Green-Grasshopper and the pessimistic Earthworm. You will also see James’ mean Aunt Spiker and cruel Aunt Sponge come to a suitably sticky end. The action is tied together by the Narrator, a storyteller, motivator, emcee, and audience friend. Take advantage of the quick costuming, simple props and basic scenery to provide your cast and audience with an exciting, peachy adventure!

DISNEY’S DESCENDANTS: THE MUSICAL

July 8 - 19

Based on the popular Disney Channel Original Movie, Disney’s Descendants: The Musical is a brand-new musical jam packed with comedy, adventure, Disney characters, and hit songs from the films!

Imprisoned on the Isle of the Lost – home of the most infamous villains who ever lived – the teenaged children of Maleficent, the Evil Queen, Jafar, and Cruella De Vil have never ventured off the island… until now. When the four troublemakers are sent to attend prep school alongside the children of beloved Disney heroes, they have a difficult choice to make: should they follow in their parents’ wicked footsteps or learn to be good?

FIELD TRIP OPPORTUNITIES

Did you know that the Mizel Arts and Culture Center hosts student performances?

Not only do we host the Denver Children’s Theatre every year, providing the opportunity of live theatre to students, we also host opportunities throughout the year for other performances. This year we have two primary opportunities; DCT aimed at elementary aged students and a special performance of Wiesenthal geared toward middle school and high school students. To learn more about the two programs and their performances please visit pages 23 and 26.

Worried that your school or students can’t afford the trip? Ask us about scholarship opportunities. Everyone deserves to have a chance to experience live theatre!

Mizel Arts and Culture Center at the J 350 South Dahlia Street Denver, CO 80246-8102