Jewish Spirit Song Jam with Adam Shames

Wednesdays, August 13, 20 & 27, 2025 | 11:30 - 12:30 PM
Lawrence Family JCC

Join song leader Adam Shames for an interactive session of live music, creative expression, and community singing. With guitar in hand, Adam will guide a joyful mix of classic and contemporary Jewish songs in Hebrew and English. Bring your voice, instruments, and rhythm makers - or use ours - as we sing, drum, and improvise together. Limited to 24 participants.

DISCLAIMER: Please note that this class requires a minimum enrollment in order to proceed. If this minimum enrollment is not met, the class will be cancelled. In the event of a cancellation, all enrolled students will be notified and will receive a full refund or the option to credit their registration fee to a future event. Price: $36 | JCC Member $30

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An Evening with Jeffrey Seller

Thursday, August 21, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Join us for an unforgettable evening with Jeffrey Seller, Tony Award-winning producer of Hamilton, Rent, In the Heights, and Dear Evan Hansen. Go behind the scenes of Broadway’s biggest hits as Seller shares stories, insights, and the creative journey that reshaped American theater, while in conversation with Barry Edelstein, Artistic Director of The Old Globe. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear from one of Broadway’s most visionary minds.

Price:
VIP Reception and includes a copy of the book: Premium Seat: $88 | JCC Member Premium Seat $72
One Seat with the Book: $56 | JCC Member $45
Two Seats with the Book: $67 | JCC Member $56

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The Spice Detective

Sunday, August 24, 2025 | 2:00 PM
Lawrence Family JCC

Join Chef Yaniv, the Spice Detective, for a flavorful event exploring Middle Eastern spices. Participate in a hands on cooking demo, enjoy a live Q&A, and listen to stories revealing the vibrant world of Israeli flavors. Learn spice tips, health benefits, and culinary secrets. Perfect for food lovers and curious cooks of all levels!

Price: $42 | JCC Members: $36

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The Vav Band presents: A Tribute to Paul Simon

Tuesday, August 26, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

The Vav band is Congregation Beth El’s 13-piece band comprised of congregants and led by musical director Craig Parks. Each year, they present a concert honoring Jewish artists and their cultural influence. This year features Paul Simon’s music both Simon and Garfunkel and solo hits. Join us at the JCC for an unforgettable, high-energy celebration!

Price: Complimentary

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Treasures of the Jewish Music

Thursdays, September 4, October 30, December 18, 2025 | 2:00 PM
Thursdays, February 19, April 16, & June 4, 2026 |2:00 PM
Astor Judaica Library
Lawrence Family JCC

Step into the rich tapestry of Jewish musical heritage with. Eileen Wingard and a community of music aficionados as they showcase and appreciate iconic musical gems from the Astor Judaica Library’s Jewish music collection.

September 4: Great Jewish Violinists
October 30: Great Jewish Cellists
December 18: Great Jewish Pianists
February 19: Great Jewish Conductors
April 16: Music for Tu B'Shvat
June 4: Music for Yom Yerushalayim

Price: Complimentary

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Great Jewish Cellists: Oct. 30th Add to Cart

Great Jewish Pianists: Dec. 18th Add to Cart

Hen Mazzig, author of The Wrong Kind of Jew, In Conversation with Roni Kuban

Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Programming generously supported by the Maury and Lillian Novak Trust and presented in partnership with the Murray Galinson San Diego Israel Initiative Join Hen Mazzig—activist, author, and founder of Mizrahi Heritage Month—for a powerful discussion on Jewish identity, inclusion, and antisemitism. A leading voice for Mizrahi Jews, Mazzig’s work reaches millions through viral campaigns and impactful storytelling. Don’t miss this chance to hear insights from his acclaimed book, The Wrong Kind of Jew, and his global advocacy. Hen will be joined in conversation by Roni Kuban, currently an MGSDII visiting professor at SDSU for Fall 2025 and renowned Israeli journalist, director, playwright and documentarian.

Price:
Premium Seating: $52 | JCC Member $45 GA Seating: $42 | JCC Member $36

Hen Mazzig, author of The Wrong Kind of Jew, In Conversation with Roni Kuban Add to Cart

An Evening with Dennis Ross, author of Statecraft 2.0

Wednesday, September 10, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Join us for an evening with Ambassador Dennis Ross, veteran U.S. diplomat and expert in Middle East policy. Discuss his new book, Statecraft 2.0, which explores how America can lead in a multipolar world. Gain insights on global challenges from Iran to China. A book signing will follow this timely, thought-provoking conversation.

Price:
Tier 1: Includes Statecraft 2.0, Meet & Greet, and Premium Seating: $88 | JCC Members: $72
Tier 2: Ticket Including a copy of Statecraft 2.0: $50 | JCC Members: $45
Tier 3: Ticket without Book: $25 | JCC Members: $20

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Asi Matathias: A Rising Star Violinist

Thursday, September 11, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Violinist Asi Matathias, a prodigious talent, debuted at 14 with the Israel Philharmonic under Zubin Mehta. Celebrated for his maturity and artistry, he has performed at Carnegie Hall, Berlin Philharmonie, and internationally, collaborating with renowned conductors like Yoel Levi and Eliahu Inbal, establishing himself as one of his generation’s leading violinists across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Price: Complimentary

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Gabe Fleisher, Author of Daily Political Newsletter: Wake Up to Politics

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

This program is generously sponsored by Hanna and Mark Gleiberman

Join us for an exciting event with Gabe Fleisher, Gen Z journalist and founder of Wake Up To Politics. Gabe will present key political insights, followed by a dynamic discussion on today’s political climate. Don’t miss this chance to hear from a nationally recognized voice who’s reshaping political journalism for a new generation.

Price: $24 | JCC Member $22 | Student $20

Gabe Fleisher, Author of Daily Political Newsletter: Wake Up to Politics Add to Cart

Max Haymer: A Dazzling Tribute to Jewish Jazz Legends

Sunday, October 5, 2025 | 3:30 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Join us for an unforgettable night with acclaimed jazz pianist Max Haymer! Known for his electrifying performances and dynamic style, Max brings his unique blend of jazz mastery and passionate expression to the stage. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his music, this evening promises incredible artistry, soulful melodies, and an inspiring musical experience.

Price: $24 | JCC Member $22

Max Haymer: A Dazzling Tribute to Jewish Jazz Legends Add to Cart

3-PACK JEWISH AUTHOR SERIES:
Yardena Schwartz, Dara Horn & Pamela Nadell

Yardena Schwartz - Thursday, October 16th, 2025 | 7:00 PM
Dara Horn - Saturday, October 18th, 2025 | 7:00 PM
Pamela Nadell - Monday, November 17th, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Join us for all three events as part of our Jewish Author Series and enjoy these dynamic programs featuring Yardena Schwartz, Dara Horn, and Pamela Nadell. This series highlights powerful Jewish voices exploring history, identity, and storytelling. One convenient ticket grants access to the full lineup of thought-provoking conversations and unforgettable evenings with acclaimed authors.

Price:
3-Pack GA Ticket (includes one copy of Ghosts of a Holy War and Antisemitism, An American Tradition): $115 | JCC Member $98

3-Pack Premium Ticket (includes Meet & Greet with Dara Horn, Premium Seating for Dara Horn event, and one copy of Ghosts of a Holy War, People Love Dead Jews, and Antisemitism, An American Tradition): $155 | JCC Member $130

3-PACK JEWISH AUTHOR SERIES:
Yardena Schwartz, Dara Horn & Pamela Nadell Add to Cart

JEWISH AUTHOR SERIES:
Yardena Schwartz, Author of Ghosts of a Holy War

Thursday, October 16, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Programming generously supported by the Maury and Lillian Novak Trust Yardena Schwartz, an award-winning journalist and bestselling author, has written for The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and TIME. Her book Ghosts of a Holy War explores the 1929 Palestine massacre through a Memphis family’s attic discovery. Join her for a compelling discussion on Israel, American journalism’s evolution, political shifts, and more.

Price:
With Book: $42 | JCC Member $36
Without Book: $25 | JCC Member $20

JEWISH AUTHOR SERIES:
Yardena Schwartz, Author of Ghosts of a Holy War Add to Cart

JEWISH AUTHOR SERIES:
Dara Horn, Author of People Love Dead Jews

Saturday, October 18, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Programming generously supported by the Maury and Lillian Novak Trust and co-sponsored by Jewish Federation of San Diego Join acclaimed author and scholar Dara Horn for a compelling conversation on Jewish memory, identity, and culture. With numerous awards and powerful works like People Love Dead Jews, Dara explores how public fascination with Jewish tragedy often overshadows vibrant Jewish life. Dara will be joined in conversation by Vlad Khaykin, Executive Vice President of Social Impact and Partnerships at the Simon Wiesenthal Center, as they engage in a timely discussion on literature, antisemitism, and the complexities of historical representation.

Price:
Premium (includes meet & greet, premium seating and copy of People Love Dead Jews):
$88 | JCC Member $72
General Admission: $42 | JCC Member $36

JEWISH AUTHOR SERIES:
Dara Horn, Author of People Love Dead Jews Add to Cart

Traveler's Prayer: Performed by The Braid

Sunday, October 19, 2025 | 3:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Join us for a powerful evening with The Braid, the award-winning Jewish story company. Through captivating performances of true stories, The Braid brings to life diverse voices and experiences from the Jewish community. Funny, poignant, and deeply human, this unique theatrical event blends storytelling and culture for a night that will entertain, inspire, and resonate long after.

Price: $36 | JCC Member $30

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Sarah Aroeste in Concert

Wednesday, November 12, 2025 | 7:00 PM
Congregation Beth El

Join us for an intimate evening with Sarah Aroeste, a trailblazing artist revitalizing Ladino, the Judeo-Spanish language of Sephardic Jews. Through vibrant performances and original music blending Sephardic tradition with rock, jazz, and funk, she connects generations and brings Ladino to life for today’s audiences. Experience her unique, captivating sound and cultural passion live.

Price: $36 | JCC Member $30

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JEWISH AUTHOR SERIES:
Pamela Nadell, Author of Antisemitism, An American Tradition

Monday, November 17, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Programming generously supported by the Maury and Lillian Novak Trust Join us for an insightful evening with Pamela Nadell, renowned historian and author specializing in American Jewish history and antisemitism. Winner of the National Jewish Book Award, Nadell shares powerful stories and expert analysis. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear from a leading scholar shaping the understanding of Jewish heritage and contemporary challenges.

Price Includes One Book:
Single Ticket: $42 | JCC Member $36
Couple Tickets: $48 | JCC Member $42

JEWISH AUTHOR SERIES:
Pamela Nadell, Author of Antisemitism, An American Tradition Add to Cart

JEWISH POETS-JEWISH VOICES: The Magic of Spoken Word

Tuesdays, November 18, 2025, January 13, March 10 & May 19, 2026 | 7:00 PM
Lawrence Family JCC

Celebrate the 19th season of Jewish Poets-Jewish Voices! Experience an enriching evening as three talented local poets, handpicked by the JP-JV committee, share their compelling presentations. Following their performances, indulge in a half hour of open mic, where you're invited to share your own voice. Join us for a captivating night filled with spoken word and moments of introspection.

Price: Complimentary

November 18th Add to Cart

January 13th Add to Cart

March 10th Add to Cart

May 19th Add to Cart

Day of American Mah Jongg with Michelle Frizzell

Tuesday, December 2, 2025 | 10:00 AM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Join us for a fun-filled day of American Mah Jongg with expert Michele Frizzell! Learn tips to boost your game, enjoy live play, and meet fellow enthusiasts. With decades of experience and over 46,000 YouTube fans, Michele’s clear teaching and passion make this a can't-miss event. Bring your set, table mat, and friends—or meet new ones!

Price: $62 | JCC Member $47

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A Jewish December 25th Tradition: Kosher Chinese Food and A Classic Film

Thursday, December 25, 2025 | Dinner 6:00 PM | Film 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Enjoy a cozy evening filled with kosher Chinese cuisine and a screening of a timeless classic film. This over 100-year-old tradition, rooted in the Jewish American experience, brings people together through shared meals and meaningful moments. Join us for a warm, inclusive celebration of community, culture, and connection.

Price: $56 | JCC Membership $45

A Jewish December 25th Tradition: Kosher Chinese Food and A Classic Film Add to Cart