By Holly Rosen Fink
George Gershwin. Louis B. Mayer. Woody Allen. Bob Dylan. George Burns. Barbara Streisand. What do these entertainers have in common? Jewishness! For years they have been honing their skills in front of microphones and behind the camera. About 50 years ago, Jewish entertainers suddenly became encouraged to tell everyone what they really thought, as well as who they really were. Jewish stories became an important part of mainstream culture with all their intelligence, outrage, self-deprecation, and incredible sense of humor.
The World Jewry Committee has teamed up with three authors who have written extensively about Jewish characters or shows/films largely centered around Jewish characters. Jennifer Armstrong, the author of Seinfeldia, will talk about the history and legendary status a TV show has had on mainstream culture. Erin Carlson, the author of I’ll Have What She’s Having, takes readers behind the scenes of the late writer/ director’s big three: When Harry Met Sally, Sleepless in Seattle and You’ve Got Mail. Lastly, Isaac Butler, co-author of The World Only Spins Forward: The Ascent of Angels in America, will discuss one of the most Jewish shows ever made: Transparent on Amazon Prime.
Here are the dates:
All events will take place in the Activity Room and food and beverages will be served. There will also be book signings and books will be sold.