Sean Penn, Mandy Patinkin, Alan Cumming & More Come To OFJCC Palo Alto

The Oshman Family Jewish Community Center of Palo Alto presents a sensational line-up for its 2018-2019 Arts & Dialogues series, featuring appearances by internationally acclaimed actors and musicians, in addition to world-class theatre and literature events. Beginning in September and continuing through next spring, the OFJCC will host captivating live performances by household names such as Tony and Emmy Award-winning actor Mandy Patinkin and renowned entertainer Alan Cumming.

A number of notable novelists will also visit the Oshman Family JCC to discuss moving tales about life, Jewish culture and history, including Academy Award-winning actor Sean Penn, author of "Bob Honey Who Just Do Stuff," and Rachel Kadish, who received a National Jewish Book Award for "The Weight of Ink." Celebrating the 50th anniversary of Chaim Potok's beloved novel about the American Jewish experience, the Oshman Family JCC will present the Fountain Theatre's acclaimed stage adaptation of The Chosen for two shows only.

In October, Latin Grammy nominees Mariachi Flor De Toloache, New York City's first all-female mariachi group, will bring its unique flavor to Palo Alto, followed by Daniel Kahn and the Painted Bird, a Berlin-based group whose music is a fascinating mixture of klezmer, radical Yiddish song, political cabaret, and punk folk. Other highlights include Bluegrass Beatles, violin virtuoso Gil Shaham, Grammy award-winning slack key artists in Hawaiian Masters of Music, several performances for kids, and much more.

The OFJCC is still adding outstanding speakers and performers to the fall season lineup. To see the full schedule of events, please visit paloaltojcc.org/arts.

In chronological order, the OFJCC's 2018/19 season is as follows:

 

Omree Gal-Oz Jazz Quartet
Debut Concert and CD Launch
7:00pm Sunday, August 26

Omree Gal-Oz is one of the Bay Area's most promising young jazz piano virtuosos. After hearing his father's George Gershwin and Art Tatum CDs at the age of 12, Gal-Oz followed his calling and has been playing, composing, and improvising with the best jazz masters of our time. He took his first jazz steps as a teen when he joined the Latin Jazz Youth Ensemble of San Francisco, the SFJAZZ High School All-Stars, The Jazz Band of America, The Brubeck Colony and other ensembles, which exposed him to different musical styles such as Afro-Cuban, free jazz, and Brazilian. USC's Thornton School of Music awarded Gal-Oz a scholarship and invited him to study with Yellowjackets' Russell Ferrante, as well as Bob Mintzer, Alan Pasqua and others. Since graduating, he has been playing regularly with artists around the Bay Area. The Omree Gal-Oz Quartet includes Gal-Oz on piano, Giulio Xavier on bass, Ahkeel Mestayer on percussion, and Malachi Whitson on drums. Admission is free, but registration is required. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/omree or by calling (650) 223-8649.

"RBG" (Ruth Bader Ginsburg) Movie Screening
7:30pm Wednesday, September 5

At the age of 85, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has developed a breathtaking legal legacy while becoming an unexpected pop culture icon. But, without a definitive biography, the unique personal journey of this diminutive and quiet warrior's rise to the nation's highest court has been largely unknown, even to some of her biggest fans-until now. "RBG" is a revelatory documentary exploring her exceptional life and career, also starring Jane and James Ginsburg, Gloria Steinem, Bill Clinton, Ted Olson, Judge Harry Edwards, Senator Orrin Hatch, and more. Tickets are $10 adults/$8 students. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/rbg or by calling (650) 223-8649.

Phoebe Hunt & The Gatherers
8:00pm Thursday, September 13

The Oshman Family JCC presents sensational Americana fiddler and vocalist Phoebe Hunt, one of Rolling Stone's "10 New Country Artists You Need to Know." Hunt ignited her solo career with "Shanti's Shadow," the culmination of a five-year journey that took her from her Austin roots through Nashville's Music Row, Brooklyn, and even to India to study with seventh-generation master violinist Kala Ramnath. Along the way, she found her voice, writing and performing her most inspired set of songs to date. With her band The Gatherers, Hunt will present a dreamy auditory experience featuring impressive musicianship, powerful lyrics, danceable rhythms, and cross-cultural exploration. Tickets are $35 general/$30 JCC members and J-Pass holders/$25 students. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/hunt or by calling (650) 223-8649.

"Bob Honey Who Just Do Stuff"
An Evening with Sean Penn
7:30pm Wednesday, September 26

Oscar-winning actor, writer, and director Sean Penn visits the Oshman Family JCC with his debut novel "Bob Honey Who Just Do Stuff." The darkly humorous book tells the picaresque story of a middle-aged, divorced, disillusioned man living in a nondescript house on a nondescript street in Woodview, California. He is a man of many trades-sewage specialist, purveyor of pyrotechnics, contract killer for a mysterious government agency that pays in small bills. Reviewers have called "Bob Honey Who Just Do Stuff" a "fever dream of a novel" (Bill Maher) and "an incredibly interesting book...well worth getting deeply into" (Jane Smiley, Pulitzer Prize winner). Penn has worked as an actor, writer, producer, and director on over one hundred theater and film productions. He has been nominated five times for an Academy Award as Best Actor, winning his first Oscar in 2004 for his searing performance in Clint Eastwood's "Mystic River" and his second in 2009 for Gus Van Sant's "Milk." All tickets include a pre-signed copy of the book. Tickets are $55 premium (seating in the first eight rows)/$42 general/$36 JCC members and J-Pass holders. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/penn or by calling (650) 223-8678.

Encounter
7:00pm Sunday, September 30

Encounter presents Western and Arabic music at the intersection of classical and folk genres. The spontaneity of the performance is contagious: Israeli Jews and Arabs coming together to celebrate an enriching feast of musical cross-pollination and human coexistence. Performed by pianist Menachem Wiesenberg, oud artist Taiseer Elias, cellist Hillel Zori, and soprano Ronit Widmann-Levy, audiences can expect a fascinating and moving experience as contemporary classical music intertwines with traditional Arabic compositions. Admission is free, but registration is required. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/encounter or by calling (650) 223-8649.

"Black Power, Jewish Politics: Reinventing the Alliance in the 1960s"
An Evening with Author Marc Dollinger
7:30pm Wednesday, October 3

In his latest book, author Marc Dollinger charts the transformation of American Jewish political culture from the Cold War liberal consensus of the early postwar years, to the rise and influence of Black Power-inspired ethnic nationalism. Undermining widely-held beliefs about the black-Jewish alliance, Dollinger describes a new political consensus, based on identity politics, that drew blacks and Jews together and altered the course of American liberalism. Dollinger is the author of "Quest for Inclusion: Jews and Liberalism in Modern America," and co-editor of "California Jews and American Jewish History: A Primary Source Reader." He holds the Richard and Rhoda Goldman Chair in Jewish Studies and Social Responsibility at San Francisco State University. Tickets (book included) are $28 general/$25 for JCC members and J-Pass holders. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/dollinger or by calling (650) 223-8678.

 

"Hitler, My Neighbor: Memories of a Jewish Childhood, 1929-1939"
An Evening with Author Edgar Feuchtwanger
7:30pm Monday, October 8

Author and historian Edgar Feuchtwanger will discuss his book "Hitler, My Neighbor: Memories of a Jewish Childhood, 1929-1939," and his unique experience as a young boy watching Hitler from inside the windows of his home as the world around him crumbled. Born in Munich in 1924, Feuchtwanger's family escaped to England in 1939. He studied at Cambridge University and taught history at the University of Southampton until his retirement in 1989. Feuchtwanger has written several major works including "From Weimar to Hitler," "Disraeli," and "Imperial Germany 1850-1918." In 2003, he received the Order of Merit from the Federal Republic of Germany for promoting Anglo-German relations. An advance ticket/book bundle is available for $26. Tickets (book not included) are $15 general/$12 for JCC members and J-Pass holders/$8 students. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/memories or by calling (650) 223-8678.

Bluegrass Beatles
7:30pm Thursday, October 11

Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Bluegrass, also known as "the world's premier Beatles tribute," visits the Oshman Family JCC with its unique covers of the greatest band of all time. Classics such as "Eleanor Rigby," "Back in the U.S.S.R.," "Come Together," and "Blackbird" are infused with elements of bluegrass and jazz, topped off with a classical twist. Instruments such as a double banjo, fiddle, and mandolin are played in an unusual way to create unexpected sounds and a brand new interpretation of the songs already loved by millions. Tickets are $40 premium (seating in the first four rows)/$30 general/$25 for JCC members and J-Pass holders. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/bluegrass or by calling (650).223-8649.

27th Annual Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival
October 14 - November 11

The Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival returns for its 27th year of bringing carefully selected works that celebrate the Jewish spirit and culture to the Bay Area Jewish community. Designed to educate and entertain, the Festival is an opportunity for all ages to connect and explore a myriad of Jewish themes and traditions through thought-provoking short films, features, and documentaries from around the world. The Festival will open with a screening of "Sammy Davis Jr.: I've Gotta Be Me," the first major film documentary to examine Davis' vast talent and journey for identity through the shifting tides of civil rights and racial progress during 20th-century America. The Centerpiece event will feature "Standing Up," which follows three unlikely aspiring comedians as they risk everything to find their voices on the cutthroat New York comedy scene. A screening of the documentary "Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds: The Conductor Zubin Mehta," with special guests, will conclude the festival. More information can be found at www.svjff.org or by calling (408) 498-0904.

OFJCC Presents the Fountain Theatre Production of "The Chosen"
7:30pm Saturday, October 20 & 7:00pm, Sunday, October 21

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the most beloved novel about the American Jewish experience of the 20th century, this acclaimed stage adaptation of Chaim Potok's "The Chosen" is more timely than ever. Set in 1944 Brooklyn, the play tells the coming-of-age story of two observant Jewish boys who come from very different homes. A unique friendship is born and as the boys grow to manhood, they are forced to learn important lessons about each other, their fathers, and themselves. Broadway World calls the play "funny, poignant, timely and timeless!" Tickets are $40 general/$35 for JCC members and J-Pass holder/$25 students. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/chosen or by calling (650) 223-8649.

 

Mariachi Flor de Toloache
8:00pm Saturday, October 27

Latin Grammy nominee Mariachi Flor de Toloache is New York City's first and only all-women mariachi group. Founded in 2008, the group began as a trio playing harp, violin, and vihuela-a type of early Spanish stringed musical instrument. Today, Mariachi Flor de Toloache performs as a full mariachi ensemble, with members hailing from diverse cultural backgrounds such as Mexico, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Australia, Colombia, Germany, Italy, and the United States. The result of this cultural bouquet is an edgy, versatile and fresh take on traditional Mexican music. Tickets are $35 general/$30 JCC members and J-Pass holders/$25 students. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/mariachi or by calling (650) 223-8649.

 

Mandy Patinkin in Concert: Diaries 2018
with Adam Ben-David on Piano
7:30 Thursday, November 1

Before he was an Emmy Award-winning TV star, Mandy Patinkin was already a Broadway legend. A noted interpreter of the musical works of Stephen Sondheim, Patinkin is acclaimed for his work in musical theater originating iconic roles such as Georges Seurat in "Sunday in the Park with George," and Che in the original Broadway production of "Evita"-for which he won a Tony Award. On film, Patinkin is well-known for his portrayal of Inigo Montoya in "The Princess Bride." His other film credits include "Yentl," "Alien Nation," "Dick Tracy," and "Wonder," among many others. On television, Patinkin has played CIA agent Saul Berenson on Showtime's Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning "Homeland" for the last seven seasons. He has also appeared in major roles in the Emmy Award-winning "Chicago Hope," as well as "Dead Like Me" and "Criminal Minds." The acclaimed actor, singer, and storyteller will be performing songs from his latest album "Diary" live at the OFJCC. Tickets are $250 premium (includes post-performance reception)/$150 general/$145 JCC members and J-Pass holders. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/mandy or by calling (650) 223-8649.

The White Elephant Archive
7:30pm Thursday, November 8

In this intensely personal one-man production, award-winning multimedia artist Eduard Freudmann uses his family's archive to explore their silence about the Holocaust, and his own attempt to understand the burden of this legacy through art. Reflecting on the politics of Holocaust commemoration in Austria, and larger questions about how to speak of a horror once its witnesses are gone or silent, The White Elephant Archive provides a rare and important glimpse into the experience of the third generation living in Europe, and the impact of trauma across generations. Freudmann's work has been presented globally in international exhibitions and art festivals. He specializes in video, performance, and public installations, which explore the politics of commemoration and history, aesthetic perspectives on the archive, and the media presence of the Holocaust. Tickets are $20 general/$18 JCC members and J-Pass holders/$15 students. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/elephant or by calling (650) 223-8649.

"The Weight of Ink"
An Evening with Author Rachel Kadish
7:30pm Tuesday, November 13

Set in London of the 1660s and the early twenty-first century, "The Weight of Ink" is a National Jewish Book Award winner and a USA Today bestseller telling the interwoven tale of two women with remarkable intellect. Electrifying and ambitious, "The Weight of Ink" is a sophisticated work of historical fiction about women separated by centuries, and the choices and sacrifices they must make in order to reconcile the life of the heart and mind. Rachel Kadish is the author of the novels "The Weight of Ink," "From a Sealed Room," and "Tolstoy Lied: A Love Story," as well as the novella "I Was Here." Her short fiction has been read on National Public Radio, and her essays have appeared in The New York Times, Salon, and Tin House. An advance ticket/book bundle is available for $32 (hardcover) and $22 (paperback). Tickets (book not included) are $18 general/$15 for JCC members and J-Pass holders/$10 students. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/kadish or by calling (650) 223-8678.

 

Daniel Kahn & The Painted Bird
7:30pm Thursday, November 15

Daniel Kahn & The Painted Bird is a German-based klezmer band bringing Jewish punk cabaret into the current year. The original radical Yiddish borderland bandits, the group's unique sound is concocted by singer/songwriter, polyglot poet, multi-instrumentalist, and activist Daniel Kahn. His furious, tender, electrifying and revolutionary melodies are partly inspired by the struggles of Jewish revolutionaries at the turn of the century, and his own desire for a better world. The live show will also feature projections of images by legendary New York underground artist Eric Drooker, whose work is woven into the cover design for the band's latest album, as well as their new videos. Tickets are $25 general/$20 JCC members and J-Pass holders. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/kahn or by calling (650) 223-8649.

 

Metropolitan Klezmer: A Family Hanukkah Concert
5:30pm Saturday, December 8

The Oshman Family JCC presents a family Hanukkah concert featuring Metropolitan Klezmer, performing an exhilarating range of musical treasures combining the best of jazz, classical and world music to create inspired neo-traditional interpretations and compositions around eclectic Yiddish repertoire. The ensemble brings together exceptional New York musicians with backgrounds in everything from Latin jazz to funk and folk, Balkan to Zydeco to baroque, and reggae to opera to R&B-complete with multilingual vocals. The result is a stellar mélange of ethereal trance, rollicking dance, exquisitely rearranged Yiddish swing and tango, plus genre-expanding originals such as klezmer cumbia. Metropolitan Klezmer also explores obscure gems such as Soviet Yiddish theater melodies and drinking songs, long-lost soundtrack tunes from vintage films, and unexpected musical angles that completely transform familiar classics. Tickets are $40 general/$35 JCC members and J-Pass holders/$18 ages 2-18. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/metropolitan or by calling (650) 223-8649.

 

Louis Pearl: The Amazing Bubble Man
11:00am & 1:30pm Saturday, December 15

Louis Pearl: The Amazing Bubble Man returns to the Oshman Family JCC with a dazzling encounter for all ages. The world's leading bubble-ologist, Pearl will capture audiences with his fun-filled show, combining art, magic, science, and the fascination of bubbles with comedy, artistry, and audience participation. From square-shaped bubbles, to bubbles within bubbles, bubble volcanoes, and even people inside bubbles, Pearl's mesmerizing tricks will inspire joy, laughter, and awe. Tickets are $25 adults/$18 children of all ages. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/pearl or by calling (650) 223-8649.

 

Ordinarius
8:00pm Thursday, January 17

Award-winning vocal group Ordinarius is comprised of six singers and a percussionist, often performing a cappella (without the use of instruments) or with guitar, cavaquinho (a Portuguese string instrument in the European guitar family), and varied percussion instruments. Covering both the national and international popular songbooks, the group breathes new life into Brazil's most beloved songs, as well as classics from pop icons such as Stevie Wonder and The Beatles. With vibrant harmonies, Brazilian rhythms, and a fun, engaging stage presence, the group instantly became a favorite-selling out music festivals everywhere-after being introduced to American audiences in New York City in 2017. Tickets are $35 general/$30 JCC members and J-Pass holders. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/ordinarius or by calling (650).223-8649.

 

Cantor Azi Schwartz of Park Avenue Synagogue
With Colin Fowler on Piano
5:30pm Sunday, January 20

Cantor Azi Schwartz is a world-renowned vocal performer and recording artist whose music reaches both Jewish and interfaith audiences. Since 2009, Cantor Schwartz has served as cantor at Park Avenue Synagogue, the largest conservative community in New York City and the flagship of Jewish liturgical music in North America. With over one million views to his name on YouTube, he creates, records, and publishes new liturgical music in addition to hosting world-class guest artists for concerts and worship. Cantor Schwartz also performs in concerts and interfaith missions around the world, and his craft of Jewish liturgical music has been described as emotionally moving, spiritually uplifting, and artistically dynamic. Joining Cantor Schwartz is Park Avenue Synagogue Music Director Colin Fowler on piano. Fowler studied at the prestigious Interlochen Arts Academy and The Juilliard School, where he received his Bachelor of Music and his Master of Music. Fowler is a veteran of numerous Broadway shows, most recently performing in the Tony Award-winning musical "Jersey Boys." Tickets are $60 premium/$45 general/$40 JCC members and J-Pass holders. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/schwartz or by calling (650).223-8649.

 

Black Violin
7:00pm Sunday, January 27

Black Violin plays a genre-shattering blend of classical, hip-hop, rock, R&B, and bluegrass music. Since their start over a decade ago, viola player Wil B and violinist Kev Marcus have performed an average of 200 shows a year in 49 states and 36 countries-including President Obama's Inauguration and three Super Bowls. Individually and together, Black Violin has collaborated with the likes of P. Diddy, Kanye West, 50 Cent, Tom Petty, Aerosmith, Aretha Franklin, and the Eagles. Tickets are $80 adults/$60 children. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/blackviolin or by calling (650).223-8649.

 

"The Second Kind of Impossible: The Extraordinary Quest for a New Form of Matter"
An Evening with Paul J. Steinhardt
7:30pm Tuesday, January 29

When leading Princeton physicist Paul J. Steinhardt began working in the 1980s, scientists thought they knew all conceivable forms of matter. "The Second Kind of Impossible" is the story of Steinhardt's 35-year-long quest to challenge conventional wisdom. His discoveries chart a new direction in science, not only changing our ideas about patterns and matter, but also revealing new truths about the processes that shaped our solar system. The underlying science is important, simple, and beautiful-and Steinhardt's first-hand account is an engaging scientific thriller. Steinhardt is the Albert Einstein Professor in Science at Princeton University, where he is on the faculty of both the departments of Physics and Astrophysical Sciences. He is the co-founder and director of the Princeton Center for Theoretical Science, and has received the Dirac Medal and other prestigious awards for his work on the early universe and novel forms of matter. An advance ticket/book bundle is available for $30. Tickets (book not included) are $18 general/$15 for JCC members and J-Pass holders/$10 students. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/steinhardt or by calling (650) 223-8678.

 

"The Ugly Duckling"
3:00pm & 5:00pm Saturday, February 23

The thrilling Lightwire Theater troupe returns to the Oshman Family JCC with "The Ugly Duckling," using its unique brand of electroluminescent theatre to bring this classic tale into a brilliant new light. Of the five eggs in Mother Duck's nest, one is the largest and last to hatch. Bigger and paler than the others, this last hatchling is treated as an outsider by Mother Duck and her other ducklings. Rejected, the Ugly Duckling goes on a journey to discover the beauty within, culminating in a heartwarming lesson about celebrating uniqueness. Lightwire Theatre uses a cutting-edge blend of puppetry, technology, and creative choreography to create a theatrical experience unlike any other. Tickets are $35 adults/$28 children. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/duckling or by calling (650).223-8649.

 

Masters of Hawaiian Music
7:30pm Friday, March 8

Raised in rural areas where immersion in Hawaiian music and culture acted as both entertainment and education, George Kahumoku Jr., Led Kaapana, and Jeff Peterson are three master slack key artists proudly sharing Hawaii's unique folk styles originating in early 19th century Hawaiian paniolo (cowboy) culture. Four-time Grammy-winning slack key guitarist Kahumoku is known as "Hawaii's Renaissance Man." Since 2003, he has been the host of the live "Slack Key Show: Masters of Hawaiian Music," guests of which have been featured on his compilation recordings. Kaapana has been one of Hawaii's most influential musicians for decades. He has many recordings to his credit, including a project with Allison Krauss and other bluegrass legends, and has worked with Dolly Parton and Chet Atkins-as well as Hawaii's top talents. Peterson is a star of the next generation, having won the 2017 Na Hoku Award for Best Instrumental Album. Five of his songs are featured in the award-winning George Clooney film "The Descendants." Tickets are $25 general/$35 VIP-includes premium seating and a reception following the concert. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/hawaiian or by calling (408) 288-1557.

 

"Hanna and the Moonlit Dress"
3:00pm & 5:00pm Saturday, March 16

"Hanna and the Moonlit Dress" is based on the beloved Israeli book "Hanna's Sabbath Dress" by Itzhak Schweiger-Dmi'el. In this whimsical tale, Hanna goes out to play, dressed in a new white dress which her mother has just finished sewing for her. She meets her friends who want to play with her, but Hanna warns them that her new dress must stay clean for Shabbat eve. When an old man appears, carrying a heavy sack of coal, Hanna jumps in to help-forgetting all about her white dress. When she realizes that her dress has been stained with coal, she is devastated. What happens next is an enchanting story about the magic of good deeds. In this unique production, the set, props, costumes, and masks are all made of white paper. The children in the audience are invited to take part in creating Hanna's magical world during pre-show craft activities. Tickets are $35 adults/$28 children. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/hanna or by calling (650).223-8649.

 

"The Phantom Tollbooth"
3:00pm & 5:30pm Saturday, March 30

The Oshman Family JCC presents an exclusive stage adaptation of the beloved classic by Norton Juster, which begins with an introduction to the story's hero: "There was once a boy named Milo who didn't know what to do with himself-not just sometimes, but always." One day, a mysterious tollbooth appears in Milo's room. When he drives his toy car through it, he finds himself in a peculiar new world where everyone he encounters is a literal embodiment of their name-from the ticking watchdog, Tock, to the lovable but nonsensical Humbug. Milo soon finds himself on an eventful and dangerous quest, meeting a number of fantastical characters and discovering the delights of friendship, curiosity, and knowledge along the way. Using puppets, masks, magic, inventive scenic effects, and original music, Enchantment Theatre Company brings this captivating story to life on stage. This production is recommended for grades 1-6 (ages 6-11). Tickets are $35 adults/$28 children. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/tollbooth or by calling (650).223-8649.

 

Alan Cumming Sings Sappy Songs
7:30pm Sunday, April 14

The Oshman Family JCC presents an evening of song and stories from internationally renowned personality Alan Cumming. The beloved actor, singer, writer, producer and activist will be joined onstage by his Emmy Award-winning musical director, Lance Horne, and cellist Eleanor Norton, for this delightful cabaret. Beyond eclectic, Cumming has performed to sold-out audiences across the globe, adored worldwide for his multitude of iconic roles in movies, television, and theatre. He recently reprised his legendary role as the Emcee in "Cabaret," for which he won a Tony Award and every other available award upon his sensational Broadway debut in 1998. Cumming is also a New York Times best-selling author, an award-winning recording artist, and a versatile actor who has appeared in blockbuster films such as "X2: X Men United," "Spy Kids," "Goldeneye," and "Romy and Michele's High School Reunion." He also recently finished his sixth season on the CBS hit drama "The Good Wife," for which he was nominated for multiple Golden Globe, Emmy SAG, Critics' Choice and Satellite awards. Tickets are $250 premium (includes post-performance reception)/$150 general/$145 JCC members and J-Pass holders. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/cumming or by calling (650).223-8649.

 

Gil Shaham, Violin and Akira Eguchi, Piano
7:30pm Saturday, April 27

Gil Shaham is a Grammy Award-winning violinist, whose flawless technique combined with his inimitable spirit has solidified his renown as an American master. He plays the 1699 Countess Polignac Stradivarius, and has earned multiple awards concerto and solo CDs including Grammy Awards, a Grand Prix du Disque, Diapason d'Or, and Gramophone Editor's Choice. Also named Musical America's 'Instrumentalist of the Year,' Shaham is sought after worldwide and regularly appears with ensembles on the world's great concert stages and at the most prestigious festivals. Joining Shaham for his appearance at the Oshman Family JCC is his longtime duo partner pianist Akira Eguchi, who is privileged to be using the legendary New York Steinway piano, model CD75 (1912). Since making his highly acclaimed New York recital debut at Alice Tully Hall, Eguchi has performed in the foremost music centers of the United States, Europe, and the Far East. He has also played for President Clinton at the White House, and for the Emperor and Empress of Japan at Hamarikyu Ashahi Hall in Tokyo. Eguchi received his bachelor's degree in composition from Tokyo University of the Arts, and his master's in piano performance from The Julliard School. He currently serves as an associate professor at Tokyo University of the Arts. Tickets are $150 premium (includes post-concert reception with the artists)/$100 general/$90 JCC members and J-Pass holders. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/shaham or by calling (650).223-8649.

 

"Violins of Hope: Strings of the Holocaust"
7:30pm Thursday, May 2

"Violins of Hope: Strings of the Holocaust," narrated by Academy Award-winner Adrien Brody, is a documentary featuring Israeli violinmaker Amnon Weinstein and his efforts over the last two decades to restore violins recovered from the Holocaust. Some were played by Jewish prisoners in concentration camps, while others belonged to the klezmer musical culture-which was all but destroyed by the Nazis. From Weinstein's mission to collect and restore these historical artifacts, and painstakingly piecing them back together so they could be brought to life again on the concert stage, comes the inspiration for this moving one-hour documentary. Admission is free, but registration is required. More information can be found at paloaltojcc.org/hope or by calling (650) 223-8649.

 

About the Oshman Family JCC

The Oshman Family Jewish Community Center (OFJCC) on the Taube Koret Campus for Jewish Life serves the South Peninsula through educational, social, cultural, fitness, sports and other programs. The OFJCC is a multi-generational Jewish neighborhood where all are welcome, and which seeks to enrich lives, build community and inspire Jewish journeys. The OFJCC provides a common ground for individuals, Jewish institutions, and other local groups and organizations and individuals to work, learn, play and celebrate together for the betterment of the whole community. The OFJCC's registered trademarks are Live Fully and J-Pass. For more information, visit www.paloaltojcc.org or call (650) 223-8700.

 

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