EDCJCC Spring 2023 Program Guide

SPRING PROGRAMS AT-A-GLANCE

APRIL

2 FAMILY ENGAGEMENT • Baby Lap Time

FAMILY ENGAGEMENT • Growing Grasshoppers

GLOE • Families at Home: Good Deeds Week

ENTRYPOINTDC • Hunger Action Project for Good Deeds Week

4 ACTIVE RETIREES CLUB • Soul Writing Circle

INCLUSION • Game Night

11 JEWISH LIFE • Celebrate Passover with Jews of Color and their Families

ACTIVE RETIREES CLUB • Soul Writing Circle

16 INCLUSION • Friends and Family Walk & Picnic

JEWISH LIFE • Yom HaShoah Memoir Writing Workshop and Author Talk with Gina Roitman

18 THEATER J • Classes for Theater Lovers Underworld Trilogy in Translation

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Volunteer Night at the Capital Area Food Bank

ACTIVE RETIREES CLUB • Soul Writing Circle

19 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • EDCJCC Urban Gardening Team

20

INCLUSION • Bingo Night

ENTRYPOINTDC • Jewish Cooking Mastered: Israeli

Flavors

21 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Handmade for the Homeless

FAMILY ENGAGEMENT • Tot Shabbat in the Lot with special guest Auntie A

25 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Game Night at The Bridge

THEATER J • Classes for Theater Lovers Underworld Trilogy in Translation

INCLUSION • Bowling Night

27 COMMUNITY • EDCJCC Annual Spring Gala

MAY

2

3

THEATER J • Classes for Theater Lovers Underworld Trilogy in Translation

INCLUSION • Game Night

7 FITNESS • Krav Maga Workshop

FAMILY ENGAGEMENT • Baby Lap Time

FAMILY ENGAGEMENT • Growing Grasshoppers

9 JEWISH LIFE • Author Talk with David Elcott: The Future of Liberal Democracy in Israel and the World

THEATER J • Classes for Theater Lovers Underworld

Trilogy in Translation

TBD ENTRYPOINTDC • Havdalah Bonfire & Musical Sing-A-Long

ENTRYPOINTDC • Jewish Geography Scavenger Hunt

11 JxJ • Festival Opening Night: June Zero

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Celebrate Spring with Housing Up

PARENTING CENTER • Beyond the Bump

13 JxJ • Festival Concert: Shalva Band 14

16 THEATER J • Classes for Theater Lovers Underworld Trilogy in Translation

17 JxJ • Festival Keynote: The 21%: The Lives of Arab Citizens of Israel

PARENTING CENTER • Pathways to Parenthood

18

PARENTING CENTER • Beyond the Bump

PARENTING CENTER • Parent Coffee: Hiring a Nanny INCLUSION • Bingo Night

JxJ • Festival Screening: Shttl

20 JxJ • Festival Screening: SCHÄTCHEN

21 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Handmade for the Homeless

JxJ • Festival: Teen Film Contest

JxJ • Festival Closing Night: Paris Boutique and Matchmaking

23 INCLUSION • Bowling Night

TBD INCLUSION • Karaoke Night

25 PARENTING CENTER • Beyond the Bump

PARENTING CENTER • Raising a Reader

JUNE

1 PARENTING CENTER • Beyond the Bump

5 JEWISH LIFE • Language Classes begin

7 THEATER J • One Jewish Boy (through 7/2)

8

Dear Friends,

As I draft this letter to you, I can barely believe how my first two months as the CEO of the Edlavitch DCJCC have flown by! While there is still so much to learn and so many more people to meet, it’s been an inspiring, exciting and educational time.

Already, I have had so many varied experiences across the Center. At the Opening Night production of Theater J’s Gloria: A Life, I had the opportunity to meet the legend Gloria Steinhem herself! I’ve seen first-hand JxJ’s upcoming Film & Music Festival take shape, and I’ve watched the list of international artists who will be attending grow.

I’ve met with our Preschool community as a group and one-on-one to learn about their experiences as parents in the city and at the EDCJCC. I’ve been engaged in conversations about the ideal profile for our next Director of Jewish Life; worked with our Security, Buildings, and Grounds Committee to ensure our facility is safe and secure; brought our staff together to discuss what it will look like to celebrate Israel’s 75th Anniversary at the JCC of the nation’s capital; and so much more! I’ve been on a listening tour to understand how I can best support the EDCJCC’s ongoing journey to be a more diverse, inclusive, and welcoming JCC for all of our community members and employees.

Of course, I’ve also been out and about getting to know the community and listening to people’s stories. I have enjoyed many drinks and meals with the generous stakeholders of the EDCJCC whose dedication to vibrant Jewish life in our nation’s capital is unparalleled and makes everything we do possible.

I’d love to meet you and hear your story! Send me an email at jzwilling@edcjcc.org and let’s find time to grab a coffee at the EDCJCC’s very own Baked By Yael cafe.

Until then, I look forward to bumping into you at an EDCJCC program soon – maybe I’ll see you at a JxJ movie or concert in May!

Wishing you all well,

NEW WEBSITE LAUNCHING SOON!

We are proud to announce the upcoming launch of our newly redesigned website, launching in July 2023. It will be located at the same address: https://www.edcjcc.org

The new site has been designed to be faster than ever, easier to navigate, and more userfriendly.

There will be a new login process for both new and returning community members. Keep your eyes open, and your email inbox refreshed, for more details to come.

Not yet signed up for emails? Visit edcjcc.org/signup to stay up to date.

OPEN 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM

MONDAY – THURSDAY

Featuring nut-free and kosher handrolled bagels, desserts, coffee, and more from Baked by Yael!

Jennifer Zwilling, EDCJCC CEO

HENRY S. REICH HEALTH AND FITNESS CENTER

Registration Opens April 7 (EDCJCC members), April 11 (non-members)

GROUP SWIM LESSONS

LATE SPRING SESSION: April 22 – May 27

The Edlavitch DCJCC features a twenty-yard three-lane indoor lap pool. We offer a complete selection of private or group lessons, exercise classes, and activities for new and experienced swimmers of all ages beginning at six months. Trained swim instructors provide expert guidance and support, helping members to learn to swim, improve their technique, get fit, train, and compete, or simply enjoy free swim time with family and friends.

GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES

The EDCJCC’s trained and certified group fitness instructors provide a social, supportive, and motivational atmosphere, no matter your fitness level or experience. Class focuses range from cardiovascular to strength training to mind & body. Visit edcjcc.org/groupexercise for the current class schedule.

NEW! DANCE FUSION

This unique dance workout blends elements of dance, strength and conditioning. Dance your way into the best shape of your life.

BARRE

An empowering full body workout that combines movement from Pilates, yoga, and ballet.

BODY PUMP

An energizing, weight-based group exercise class set to motivating, high energy music.

DOONYA DANCE

This Bollywood workout is a dance-based, highintensity interval training fitness program.

YOGA (HATHA AND VINYASA)

Incorporating therapeutic yoga poses, stability movements, and poses to maximize your flow to experience and promote full-body function.

ZUMBA

An energizing dance fitness class featuring Latin and international music.

Saturdays, April 1 through May 13, 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM

ADULT KARATE

Adult Karate is a fun and challenging exercise routine, as well as a great alternative to traditional gym workouts. Open to adults of all levels, this class builds strength, endurance, flexibility, and coordination.

CLASSES FOR ACTIVE ADULTS

NEW! ADULT SWIM STROKE CLINIC

Improve your swimming technique, swim more efficiently and confidently, and learn new strokes. Each session will be structured to permit engagement, instruction, and time to practice newly-acquired skills. While focused on crawl techniques, we encourage students to provide details for skills they are looking to build and grow.

ADULT AQUA FITNESS

This class utilizes different exercises and routines, as well as mild aerobics, to improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, and improve balance and coordination.

ACTIVE ADULT CARDIO & STRENGTH

SPECIAL EVENT:

Sunday, May 7, 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM (FREE)

KRAV MAGA WORKSHOP

Join Israeli Martial Arts specialists from Herut North America for a free Krav Maga workshop. Developed for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Krav Maga translates to “contact combat.” It includes techniques from judo, Jujitsu, karate, western boxing, and elements of wrestling. This introductory workshop is designed for all ages and skill levels.

AACS is a low-impact combination workout that includes, mobility strength, dance, and boxing all in one fun filled hour! This class is suitable for seniors who want to take the intensity up one notch above our traditional senior workouts.

April 22 – 23, May 13 – 14, June 24 – 25

FITNESS CENTER OPEN HOUSES

Visit the Fitness Center for a workout, swim, or group exercise class – plus, get a free EDCJCC tote bag (while supplies last) when you book a tour! Join during an open house and pay no registration fee.

MORRIS CAFRITZ CENTER FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Sundays, April 21, May 21, and June 11 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM

FREE,

VIRTUAL OPTION AVAILABLE HANDMADE FOR THE HOMELESS

Join fellow knitters and crocheters to make warm winter items for a great cause. All levels of knitters and crocheters are welcome. Don’t know about to knit or crochet? We’ll teach you!

Tuesday, April 18, 5:45 PM – 8:00 PM FREE

VOLUNTEER NIGHT

AT THE CAPITAL AREA FOOD BANK

Come out for an evening of volunteering at the Capital Area Food Bank and support their efforts to end food insecurity in our region. We will be sorting and packing food items in their distribution center.

Tuesday, April 25, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM FREE

GAME NIGHT

AT THE BRIDGE

Spend the evening playing board games and chatting with clients at Community of Hope’s transitional housing program, The Bridge apartment building. For volunteers over age 18.

Sunday, May 14, 8:45 AM – 12:00 PM FREE

HUNGER ACTION

AT DC CENTRAL KITCHEN

Join us for a morning of volunteering at DC Central Kitchen. Volunteers will work in the professional kitchen to chop vegetables, sort fresh produce, mix salads, portion meals, and more! For volunteers over age 12.

Thursday, May 11, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM FREE

CELEBRATE SPRING

WITH HOUSING UP

Spend an evening playing games, doing arts & crafts, and leading creative activities for children and parents living in permanent supportive housing.

Wednesdays, April 19 through October, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM

EDCJCC URBAN GARDENING TEAM

Whether you’ve been gardening for years or have never stepped foot in the dirt you’re invited to help us at the Latin American Youth Center urban garden managed entirely by the EDCJCC. Come once or join us every other Wednesday.

Sunday, date and time TBD (FREE)

ANACOSTIA RIVER KAYAK CLEAN-UP

Clean up the Anacostia River in style! Join Living Classrooms for their Green Boats program, where volunteers will clean up trash and debris while paddling on the Anacostia river. For volunteers ages 5 and up.

Tuesday, June 13, 7:00 PM

JUNETEENTH COMMUNITY CELEBRATION

Join the EDCJCC, Washington Hebrew Congregation, and the entire DC Jewish community for a week of celebrating, learning, and commemorating the Juneteenth holiday starting with a film at the EDCJCC.

CELEBRATING ISRAEL AT 75

Sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

Sunday, May 7, 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM

KRAV MAGA WORKSHOP

Join Israeli Martial Arts specialists from Herut North America for a free Krav Maga workshop. This introductory workshop is designed for all ages and skill levels. See more information on page 5.

SPECIAL EXHIBITION HUMANS OF ISRAEL: EREZ

KAGANOVITZ

Exhibition on display through August, at the EDCJCC

Humans of Israel combines photojournalism with digital storytelling in order to give a sense of what makes Israel and the diverse humans in it tick. With intriguing, thought-provoking photographs and the stories about the humans behind them, the project puts a human face on an extraordinary place and challenges preconceptions those outsides of Israel may have by communicating a sense of our shared humanity. The Humans of Israel project offers a fresh look at the rich and remarkably diverse lives of Israelis and showcases Israel’s diversity, multiculturalism, and vibrant civil society.

About Erez Kaganovitz: Photographer, native Tel Avivi, and TEDx speaker Erez Kaganovitz is the human behind the Humans of Tel Aviv, Humans of Israel, and Humans of the Holocaust projects. Through his work, Erez has helped bridge a cultural gap in society both within and outside of Israel.

Begins Sunday, April 20

JEWISH COOKING MASTERED: ISRAELI FLAVORS

A cooking class specializing in modern and traditional Israeli cuisine, chefs-in-training will learn about Israeli culture and be introduced to new recipes and techniques. See more information on page 16.

Tuesday, May 9, 7:00 PM

AUTHOR TALK WITH DAVID ELCOTT: THE FUTURE OF LIBERAL DEMOCRACY IN ISRAEL AND THE WORLD

Every day, religion informs public discourse in democracies worldwide, and fuels societal polarization. Join us for a fascinating conversation about the roots of this trend, and how, surprisingly, religion can be used to support liberal democracies. See more information on page 8.

Saturday, May 13,

9:00 PM SHALVA BAND

The Shalva Band is comprised of eight artists with disabilities whose talents were discovered and developed into those of professional, world-class musicians through the music therapy program at the Shalva National Institute in Israel. See more information on page 14.

JEWISH LIFE AND LEARNING

Tuesday, April 11, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM

CELERATE PASSOVER WITH JEWS OF COLOR AND THEIR FAMILIES

Join us for this year's Passover celebration! We will have a chocolate and toffee matzah bar, Passover-themed origami, a service project, and the opportunity to create community with other Jews of Color and their families.

Tuesdays, begins April 20, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM

Sunday, April 16, 3:00 PM - 6:45 PM

YOM HASHOAH MEMOIR WRITING WORKSHOP AND AUTHOR TALK WITH GINA ROITMAN

The Second Generation (2G) has been handed a torch, passed on by an ever dwindling number of Shoah survivors. Gina Roitman’s novel, Don’t Ask, her short stories, biography, and documentary, all focus on this responsibility. Hear from Gina about the second generation’s onerous responsibility to move forward and still honor their parent’s stories. Co-presented with 3GDC

Monday, April 3 – April 17

YOM HASHOAH CANDLES IN THE LOBBY

We are offering Yom HaShoah Yellow Candles™ to be lit on Erev Yom HaShoah, Monday, April 17, 2023. While we traditionally light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of a loved one’s death, we also light them on Yom HaShoah to collectively remember the six million who perished in the Holocaust, many of whom have no family to remember them.

INTRO TO JUDAISM

Come explore the rich fabric of Judaism! Using traditional texts and modern examples, we will cover the fundamentals of Jewish life, including Shabbat and holidays, prayer, lifecycle rituals, ethics, and beliefs. This class is ideal for learners with questions—whether you’ve never studied Judaism before in your life, you’re looking for a refresher, or you’re somewhere in between!

Tuesday, May 9, 7:00 PM

AUTHOR TALK WITH DAVID

ELCOTT:

THE FUTURE OF LIBERAL DEMOCRACY IN ISRAEL AND THE WORLD

Every day, religion informs public discourse in democracies worldwide and fuels societal polarization. Join us for a fascinating conversation about the roots of this trend, and how, surprisingly, religion can be used to support liberal democracies.

In Faith, Nationalism, and the Future of Liberal Democracy, authors Dr. David Elcott, C. Colt Anderson, Tobias Cremer and Volker Haarmann present a pragmatic and modernist exploration of how religion engages in the public square. The book highlights the use of religious identity to fuel the rise of illiberal, nationalist and populist democracy.

Books will be available to purchase and the event will be followed by a signing.

Register by May 29, Classes begin June 5

LANGUAGE CLASSES: SUMMER SESSION

It's time to register for the summer session of our language classes! We offer several levels of conversational Hebrew and beginner Yiddish. Class sizes are small, and learning is all from the comfort of your own home.

Tuesdays, April 4, April 11, April 18, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM

SOUL WRITING CIRCLE

A weekly in-person Soul Writer’s Circle that brings members of the community together, so they can use the joint space to write. The method is based on the guidance of Rabbi Tamara Miller who will facilitate the writer’s circle by providing a meaningful prompt using Jewish texts.

Tuesday, May 16, 11:00 AM

COFFEE AND CONVERSATION

WITH EDCJCC CEO JEN ZWILLING

Sunday, June 25, 9:00 AM

DC RIDE FOR THE LIVING

Join us for a 36-mile bike ride around DC as we participate in the Ride for the Living Global Challenge, which combines Holocaust education with fitness to help support JCC Krakow and survivors around the world.

Sunday, June 25, 12:00 PM SURVIVORS’

DAY LUNCH

Holocaust Survivor Day calls on people everywhere to celebrate survivors’ lives, thank survivors for their contributions and their lessons, and respond to help survivors who are in need today. Join us as we celebrate survivors at a festive event at the Edlavitch DCJCC and pack gifts for home-bound survivors.

Join our new CEO, Jen Zwilling to view and discuss the new Humans of Israel exhibit on display at the EDCJCC for Israel’s 75th anniversary. Jen will lead a conversation about the photographs, and you will be invited to share your stories and reflections over coffee and treats from Baked by Yael in the Library.

Wednesday, June 14, 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM

ARC RECEPTION AFTER ONE JEWISH BOY

Join other active retirees for a dessert and tea reception after the matinee performance of One Jewish Boy. Meet new friends, discuss the show, and enjoy a little nosh! Please note that tickets must be purchased separately. Learn more about the play on page 12.

Fridays, 1:00 PM-3:00 PM

MAHJONG IN THE LOBBY

Mahjong is a casual game for experienced players. Please email thowell@edcjcc.org to join.

EARLY CHILDHOOD, YOUTH, AND FAMILY

PRESCHOOL

We are enrolling ages 18 months through 5 years for the 20232024 school year! Visit edcjcc.org/preschooladmissions to join the Admissions Pool List and sign up for either an in-person or virtual tour.

Sundays, April 2 and May 7, 8:30 AM – 9:00 AM

BABY LAP TIME

These 25-minute experiences introduce songs, rhymes, and developmentally-appropriate movement to our youngest JFamily members! Come build a bond with your baby while meeting other caregivers. This program is meant for the baby to be in their caregiver’s lap with their grown-up actively involved. Best for children 0–18 months.

Sundays, April 2 and May 7, 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM

GROWING GRASSHOPPERS

CHILD-AND-CAREGIVER CLASSES

Registration for summer session opens in late April

Join us for in-person weekday and Sunday fun for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers (with their grownups) at the EDCJCC this June and July! Class options include music, yoga, ballet, gymnastics, and soccer. Learn more at edcjcc.org/totsclasses

Friday, April 21, 5:30 PM (IN-PERSON)

TOT SHABBAT IN THE LOT WITH SPECIAL GUEST AUNTIE A

Join us for Tot Shabbat in the EDCJCC Parking Lot! This lively 30-minute Shabbat song session with Auntie A (from Rhythm ‘N’ Ruach) is geared toward children under six years old and their parents, grandparents, and caregivers. Together we will sing, dance, say the Shabbat blessings, and enjoy challah and snacks. Bring a blanket, and feel free to hang out and have a picnic dinner afterwards!

Is your little one on the move and no longer content to just sit on your lap and play? We are looking for some “grasshoppers” who like to wiggle, jiggle, and move! Join JFamily Ambassadors Tracy and Julie (from the Pozez JCC in NoVA) and Shoshana (from the EDCJCC) to get those wiggles out with music, stories, dancing, and more!

BEFORE BABY

6 Thursdays, May 11 – June 15, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM BEYOND

THE BUMP

Pregnant for the first time? Looking to create a community with other expecting moms to exchange ideas and find support? This group will meet in-person weekly for six weeks to provide a safe and facilitated space for moms-to-be to discuss their experiences and learn from one another. We will explore several topics, including: concerns about childbirth and parenting; balancing family with work outside the home; navigating new relationships with your partner, parents, and in-laws; and recognizing post (and pre)-partum depression and anxiety.

FAMILY BUILDING

PARENT COFFEE SERIES

Join us in person at 10:00 AM on the third Thursday of most months to gather with other new parents, and parents-tobe for coffee, company, and relaxed conversations on topics of interest to new parents. Bring your babies and your questions. Each month, we’ll spend most of our time talking through participants’ specific situations.

Thursday, May 18, 10:00 AM

Wednesday, May 17, 7:00 PM

PATHWAYS TO PARENTHOOD

Thinking about growing your family or looking for support after struggling to conceive? Join us for an informal discussion about different paths to family building. Our panel will include a fertility doctor, representatives from an adoption agency and the DC foster care system, lawyers who facilitates egg donor and gestational carrier agreements, and parents who have built families in a variety of ways. The program will consist of brief formal presentations from each of our panelists followed by lots of time in breakout rooms for more intimate conversations and questions.

LGBTQ and straight, couples and single parents, Jewish and non-Jewish — are all warmly welcomed. Come prepared to ask questions, get support, and connect with other people on the path to parenthood.

Co-presented by the EDCJCC’s Parenting Center & GLOE – the EDCJCC’s Kurlander Program for GLBTQ Outreach and Engagement in partnership with the Jewish Fertility Foundation, Greater DC.

Tuesday, April 25, 8:00 PM

RAISING A READER

How does a child become a life-long reader? What can parents do to foster pre-literacy and early literacy skills? When and how should children be learning to read? Parents of preschoolers often find these questions very stressful, but they don’t have to be! Join early literacy expert Lynn Klaiman for a practical and reassuring virtual discussion about how to start and support your child on their journey towards a lifelong love of reading. Intended for parents of 0-5 year olds, but all are welcome.

Sarah Marks, founder and president of Nannies by Sarah, will discuss the pros and cons of different childcare options and the benefits of hiring a nanny, and will share strategies for hiring a nanny that meets your family’s needs.

Thursday, June 15, 10:00 AM

Khyati Desai-Seltzer of Vyana Infant Massage LLC will discuss the benefits of infant massage and demonstrate some massage strokes that you can use with your baby at home.

WE’RE HIRING!

The EDCJCC is seeking school year and summer camp staff. Apply at edcjcc.org/camp.

ONE JEWISH BOY

By Stephen Laughton

Directed by Johanna Gruenhut

June 7 – July 2, 2023

THE US PREMIERE OF THE JEWISH PLAY THAT STUNNED THE UK

In this bittersweet, sophisticated, and quick-fire new British comedy about antisemitism, Jesse, a nice Jewish boy, falls in love with Alex, a nice mixed-race girl. The love between them is pure and absolute, but Jesse has never been able to shake off the vicious attack that changed him forever. Navigating any relationship is difficult enough, but what happens when you factor in politics and rising prejudice? This provocative play received a massive antisemitic response when the UK production opened in 2018; posters were defaced, and the writer received death threats.

Don’t miss the US premiere of this urgent and unflinching comedy, which pits the impact of hatred against the power of love.

“Moving… shows how race, gender, class, culture, and, perhaps most importantly, fear, impact on the characters’ lives” –The Stage

ONE JEWISH BOY

CLASSES FOR THEATER LOVERS

By Stephen Laughton

Directed by Johanna

Gruenhut

PROSTITUTES, CRIMINALS, AND THE WALKING DEAD: SHOLEM ASCH’S UNDERWORLD TRILOGY IN TRANSLATION

Taught by Caraid O’Brien Tuesdays, April 18 – May 16, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM

Sholem Asch is one of the greatest and best-known Yiddish dramatists and Caraid O’Brien is one of the foremost contemporary interpreters and translators of his work. In this class, you will dive into her rousing translations of three of Asch’s seminal works, God of Vengeance, Motke Thief, and The Dead Man, being published this spring by the Yiddish Book Center’s White Goat Press as The Underworld Trilogy. In addition to learning about Asch and his place on the world stage, this class will investigate questions like: How does a translator anticipate the author’s intent? In what ways do translations change to meet our contemporary sensibilities?

The US Premiere of the Jewish Play That Stunned the UK

Thursday, May 11, 7:00 PM – EDCJCC JUNE ZERO

Dir. Jake Paltrow - 105 minutes - Narrative - United States/Israel - 2023

From acclaimed filmmaker Jake Paltrow, this film tells the gripping, empathetic, and surprising story of the 1961 trial of Adolf Eichmann, the architect of the mass murder of the Jews during World War II. Based on true events, this film follows the lives of three unlikely characters: Eichmann’s Jewish Moroccan prison guard, an Israeli police investigator, and a 13-year-old Jewish Libyan immigrant.

Q&A with director Jake Paltrow and producers Ron Goldman and Oren Moverman.

CELEBRATING ISRAEL AT 75

Thursday, May 18, 8:00 PM – EDCJCC SHTTL

Dr. Ady Walter - 114 min - Narrative - Ukraine/France2022 - Yiddish w/ English subtitles

One of the most spell-binding films of this year’s Festival, Shttl beautifully captures the life and loves of a Yiddishspeaking village on the eve of the Nazi invasion of Soviet Ukraine.

Q&A with director Ady Walter

Saturday, May 13, 9:00 PM – EDCJCC SHALVA BAND

In celebration of the 75th Anniversary of Israel, join the DC, Maryland, and Virginia Jewish communities for a delightful and inspiring concert featuring the Shalva Band. The Shalva Band is comprised of eight artists with disabilities whose talents were discovered and developed into those of professional, world-class musicians through the music therapy program at the Shalva National Institute in Israel. In addition to being an exciting and moving musical experience, the band’s performances shatter attitudinal barriers, causing mesmerized audiences to believe in human potential and dignity.

Sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington in partnership with the Bender JCC of Greater Washington and the Pozez JCC of Northern Virginia.

Saturday, May 20, 8:00 PM – EDCJCC

SCHÄCTEN

Dir. Thomas Roth - 110 min - Narrative - Austria - 2022German w/ English subtitles

A young Jewish businessman's son, Victor Dessauer, seeks just punishment for former SS officer Kurt Gogl, who tortured his parents. When he fails, he becomes resolved to take the law into his own hands.

Q&A with director Thomas Roth

KEYNOTE EVENT

Sunday, May 21, 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM – EDCJCC

TEEN FILM CONTEST

Wednesday, May 17, 6:00 PM – EDCJCC

THE 21%: THE LIVES OF ARAB CITIZENS OF ISRAEL

Our annual keynote program exploring the daily lives and challenges of Arab citizens of Israel. Following the film, join us for a Q&A with producer and founder of Budo for Peace Danny Hakim and Budo for Peace alum Nour Anaeem.

SHADYA

Dir Roy Westler - 50 min - Documentary - Israel - 2005 - Arabic & Hebrew w/ English subtitles

Like many teenage girls, Shadya Zoabi enjoys listening to music and hanging out with her friends. But unlike most 17-year-old girls, Shadya is a world champion in karate, a Muslim Arab living in Israel, and a feminist in a male-dominated culture.

Sponsored by the Greater Washington Forum on Israeli Arab Issues and the Edlavitch DCJCC.

Lead support provided by The Naomi and Nehemiah Cohen Foundation.

2023 marks our first ever Teen Film Contest, where teenagers across the DMV area submit a 1–3-minute short film answering the question, “Where do you belong?”

Two winners will receive a Visa gift card and will have their films premiered during the Festival’s Closing Night screenings!

Sunday, May 21, 6:00 PM – EDCJCC PARIS

BOUTIQUE

Dir. Marco Carmel - 81 min - Narrative - Israel - 2022Hebrew w/ English subtitles

French-Jewish lawyer Louise takes a break from planning her lavish wedding in Paris to go on a short business trip to Jerusalem. She hopes to seal a multimillion property deal and meets a charming Israeli man. Paris Boutique is a fun and delightful romantic comedy about love, friendship – and even, a little peace in the Middle East.

Sunday, May 21, 8:00 PM - EDCJCC

MATCHMAKING

Dir. Erez Tadmor - 96 min - Narrative - Israel - 2022Hebrew w/ English subtitles

A witty, entertaining romantic comedy, Matchmaking is a goodhearted story of two young, eligible ultra-Orthodox singles looking for a match. A Romeo and Juliet tale about love, Matchmaking is Israel’s biggest box office hit of the year, starring Maor Schwitzer from Shtisel and Irit Kaplan from The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem

INTEREST TRIBES

We will continue to bring our young adult community together for informal group gatherings! Join our monthly book club, mahjong group, cooking interest tribe, outdoors tribe, men’s tribe and women’s tribe, arts tribe, and new improv tribe.

2, 11:00 AM HUNGER ACTION PROJECT FOR GOOD DEEDS WEEK

Sunday, April

Celebrate Good Deeds Week with EntryPointDC and Moishe House. Join us to learn about how the end of the Pandemic Health Emergency is impacting food benefits for DC residents. Volunteers will then make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for neighbors experiencing food insecurity.

May, date and time TBD

HAVDALAH BONFIRE & MUSICAL SING-A-LONG: SONGS WITH FIRE FOR LAG B’OMER FEATURING JEWS THAT JAM

Come out for Havdalah around the bonfire and join in a sing-a-long featuring songs with fire in honor the holiday of Lag B’Omer. Last spring we created a rockin’ new community of Jew-ish young adult musicians and singers to form temporary bands and we are inviting the musicians to join us. We will provide hot dogs and smores, bring your favorite drink and snacks to share!

May, date and time TBD

JEWISH GEOGRAPHY SCAVENGER HUNT

Begins Sunday, April 20

JEWISH COOKING MASTERED: ISRAELI FLAVORS

EntryPointDC’s popular cooking series is back! A cooking class specializing in modern and traditional Israeli cuisine, chefs-in-training will learn more about Israeli culture, be introduced to new recipes and techniques to share with their friends and family, and carry on Jewish and Israeli cultural tradition through the culinary arts. Participants may also choose to come together at the conclusion of the class to host a special Shabbat meal for their classmates and peers.

May is Jewish American Heritage Month so we will be celebrating by learning more about each other, connecting our social circles, and discovering more about Jews from around the world as we solve puzzles and complete tasks in teams.

May 11-25

ENTRYPOINTDC AT JxJ

Join other young professionals for curated events during JxJ, a hybrid arts festival encompassing the Washington Jewish Film Festival and Washington Jewish Music Festival. Come out for singles night, LGBTQ night, and more!

Thursday, June 15, 8:00 PM

30S/40S: HAPPY HOUR & ONE JEWISH BOY PERFORMANCE

Hang out with our 30s and 40s crowd for a happy hour and Theater J performance of One Jewish Boy. Learn more about the play on page 12.

June, date and time TBD

CAPITAL JEWISH MUSEUM VISIT & WALKING TOUR

Did you know there is a new museum in town? We will explore the Capital Jewish Museum and participate in one of their signature walking tours!

GLOE

THE KURLANDER PROGRAM FOR GLBTQ OUTREACH & ENGAGEMENT

Ongoing, Monthly GLOE HIKE & BRUNCH

Meet other members of the GLOE community and enjoy a leisurely hike followed by brunch.

Sunday, April 2

GLOE FAMILIES AT HOME: GOOD DEEDS WEEK

We will connect GLOE families to work on at home projects together for Good Deeds Week!

May 11 – 21

GLOE AT JxJ

Connect with other LGBTQ+ friends and families for curated events during JxJ, a hybrid arts festival encompassing the Washington Jewish Film Festival and Washington Jewish Music Festival. See page 14 for more details.

June 2 – 11 PRIDE WEEK

Join GLOE and partners for the Capital Pride Parade, Capital Pride Festival, Pride happy hour and more celebrations that will bring together our Jewish LGBTQ community of all ages!

June 8: Pride Happy Hour

June 10: Capital Pride Parade

June 11: Capital Pride Festival

INCLUSION & DISABILITIES

Sunday, April 16, 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM

INCLUSION FRIENDS AND FAMILY WALK & PICNIC

Join us in celebrating the arrival ofspring weather to enjoy a walk through Rock Creek Park with family and friends! We’ll engage in different mindfulness activities along the way to take in all the sights, sounds, and smells! After a stroll, we’ll sit down to enjoy each other’s company and eat lunch.

May, date and time TBD INCLUSION KARAOKE NIGHT

Join your friends for a night of Karaoke, singing the night away to your favorite songs! Location TBD and more details to come.

Friday, June 16, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

SUMMER KICK OFF ZUMBA & BBQ

Celebrate the arrival of summer and kick it off with the EDCJCC’s Inclusion Program, literally! We will start off with an invigorating 30-minute Zumba class. Then, we’ll cool down with water balloons and satisfy our appetites with a kosher BBQ!

Middle schoolers: June 26-30

High schoolers: July 3-14

SUMMER OF SERVICE INCLUSION CAMP

Spend your summer making the world a better place! Teens of all abilities work directly with community non-profits, learning and reflecting on social responsibility. Campers will earn 15 service hours per week through our volunteer projects and in the afternoons, enjoy all the fun of typical camp activities!

Learn more and register at edcjcc.org/camp

INCLUSION & DISABILITIES

Registration at the beginning of April, May, June

SPIRIT CLUB FITNESS CLASSES

Register for our upcoming in-person fitness class series with Sprit Club! Spirit Club Trainers are both certified personal trainers as well as certified by DDA to work with individuals of all abilities. Spirit Club offers a range of inclusive fitness classes such as Yoga, Zumba, and Group Fitness.

Tuesday, April 4; Wednesdays, May 3, June 7, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

GAME NIGHT

Come and join us for a night of friends and fun! We’ll play rounds of Uno, Jenga, Scrabble, Sorry, and cards. If you have a different game you’d like to play, bring it along!

Tuesdays, April 25, May 23, June 20, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM

BOWLING NIGHT

Thursdays, April 20, May 18, and June 15, 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM

BINGO NIGHT

Join your friends for bingo night! When you sign up, we’ll send you a bingo card via email, so all you’ll need are some coins or other small objects to cover each space.

Work on your bowling skills while socializing with your friends at the Bowlero in Bethesda! All abilities welcome, and participants may bring a friend for support if needed.