Chazen Center for Adult Life | Winter Brochure 2025
Music Lectures with Clint Edwards
Through rich recordings, fascinating stories, and heartfelt nostalgia, Clint Edwards brings to life the music and legends that defined a century.
$10 MEMBER PER LECTURE | $15 PUBLIC PER LECTURE
Masters of American Music Series
Select Mondays
DECEMBER 1 | 11 AM | Masters of American Music: The Carter Family, Jimmie Rodgers and More
Exploring the pioneering musical styles of these legends, we’ll follow how the music of various immigrant cultures became integrated into the mainstream of some of our most popular musical styles.
DECEMBER 15 | 11 AM | Masters of American Music: Johnny Cash
Exploring the life and music of one of the superstars of American popular song, with a close look at the creation of his album “Ring Of Fire.”
DECEMBER 22 | 11 AM | Masters of American Music: Patsy Cline
Undoubtedly one of the finest voices to ever sing popular musical styles, we’ll explore the life and music of this icon of American song.
Classical Music Series
Select Mondays
JANUARY 26 | 11 AM | 250 Years of Classical Music in America
As we celebrate the 250th year of the founding of America, we’ll survey the long and important role classical music has played in our history.
FEBRUARY 9 | 11 AM | Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concertos
We will explore the life of composer Sergei Rachmaninoff and the composition of his famous piano concertos.
FEBRURY 23 | 11 AM | Bizet’s Carmen
The focus is on composer Georges Bizet, the beautiful Spanish city of Seville, and the connection between the operatic masterpiece “Carmen” and the complex history and culture of southern Spain.
Musical Theater Greats
Select Tuesdays
MARCH 17 | 11 AM | Julie Andrews
Exploring the life and music of one of the theater’s most beloved performers.
MARCH 31 | 11 AM | Gower Champion - Master Director
An in-depth look at how the director/choreographer Gower Champion crafted some of the most popular musicals of the 60s, 70s, and 80s such as Bye Bye Birdie, Hello, Dolly!, and 42nd Street.
Join us at Books & Bagels, where acclaimed authors from the Jewish Book Council visit the JCC to share the stories behind their latest books.
The Prosecutor: One Man’s Battle to Bring Nazis to Justice with Author Jack Fairweather
We’ll examine the biography of Jewish lawyer Fritz Bauer who returned to Germany after World War II to prosecute war crimes, only to find himself fighting a nation that was determined to bury the crimes of the past.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 20 | 11 AM
$15 MEMBERS | $22 PUBLIC
3…2…1…We’re On The Air: A Network Producer’s Inside Look at Sports, Television, Journalism, and Gender Equity with Author Robert Steinfeld
Join Emmy Award-winning producer Robert Steinfeld on his path from eager, ambitious Jewish teenage journalist to ultimately realizing his dream to produce sports’ biggest events on national network television. The author is virtual. We will be live, enjoying bagels and coffee.
THURSDAY,FEBRUARY5| 1PM
$15MEMBERS|$22PUBLIC
*Note this is a special afternoon session of Books & Bagels
The Girl Bandits of the Warsaw Ghetto with Author Elizabeth Hyman
As we celebrate Bold Women in March, we’ll revisit the tale of the Warsaw Ghetto uprising during World War II. The book highlights the lives of five young, Polish Jewish women who helped lead the resistance, fight the Nazi regime and aid Jews in hiding across occupied Poland and Eastern Europe.
TUESDAY, MARCH 24 | 11 AM
$15 MEMBERS | $22 PUBLIC
Where Jewish Authors Join the Conversation.
Join a vibrant new book group dedicated to celebrating and supporting Jewish authors— and experience the thrill of having the author right there with you! On the day of each session, the featured author will be present for an intimate and engaging discussion, offering behind-the-scenes insight into their work. Light dessert served.
The Girls of the Glimmer Factory with Author Jennifer Coburn
Don’t miss this gripping tale of two former friends on different sides of Nazi oppression during WWII, and how their humanity is tested during the most difficult of circumstances. Book signing available.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 29 | 1 PM
$15 MEMBERS | $22 PUBLIC
Enrich your life with exhilarating day trips to the hottest Broadway shows, live music, and world renowned museums, exhibits and more. We take care of all the details on our fully-chaperoned bus trips so that you get to sit back, relax, meet new people and enjoy unforgettable cultural experiences. Come travel with us today!
Chess on Broadway
Don’t miss this chance to see Lea Michele starring in Broadway’s hottest new show. You’ll have time for lunch on your own before the show.
Bus departs the JCC at 10 am
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2026
$239 MEMBERS | $289 PUBLIC
Ragtime at Lincoln Center
Experience the infectious energy and timeless spirit of Ragtime live at Lincoln Center—where history, music, and emotion burst to life on stage! Time for lunch before the performance.
Bus departs the JCC at 10 am
WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2026
$199 MEMBERS | $249 PUBLIC
CREATIVE ARTS
The Gallery Above at the J
Dudamel Conducts
The New York Philharmonic
Gustavo Dudamel headlines with musicians Sheku Kannah-Mason on cello and the New York Philharmonic Chorus. The music includes Ellen Reid’s Earth Between Oceans, Bloch’s Schelomo, and Stravinsky’s The Firebird Suite. Time for lunch in the Lincoln Center neighborhood following the 11am performance.
Bus departs the JCC at 9 am
FRIDAY, MAY 1, 2026
$229 MEMBERS | $279 PUBLIC
Giant on Broadway
Join us to see acclaimed actor John Lithgow as Roald Dahl. Giant tells the story of author Roald Dahl and the true scandal that shook his legacy. Time for lunch before the show.
Bus departs the JCC at 10 am
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2026
$225 MEMBERS | $275 PUBLIC
Discover the Gallery Above at the J, a rotating art exhibition space on the second floor of the JCC featuring local artists. Every 8-12 weeks, the gallery features a new exhibition, bringing fresh perspectives, stories and creativity. Each show is celebrated with an opening reception, offering artists the chance to engage with the community and highlight their vision. Stop by to see our first featured artist, JCC Member, Joan Israel, through mid January. Check the website for updates on new featured artists.
Art Co-op
Join a friendly artistic community for sculpting, drawing, painting, watercolors, collage or exploring another medium—whatever your creative outlet, the Art Co-op offers a welcoming space to work on your own projects alongside fellow artists. Bring your own project or work with collage materials laid out for you. Materials and ongoing projects can be stored on-site at the JCC for convenience. All media and levels of creativity are welcome. A perfect setting for collaboration, expression, and artistic community.
Maturely Motivated Players Presents Too Much Stuff
Clutter got you down? Don’t cry—laugh! This delightful troupe of senior performers brings humor to our mess with adapted readings from well-known humorists. Too Much Stuff! offers a lighthearted, relatable take on the chaos we all face—delivered with charm, wit, and plenty of laughs.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2025 | 2 PM
FREE MEMBERS | $15 PUBLIC
Hanukkah Party
The HalCrystal Players return with their lively ten-piece band to light up the afternoon. Latkes and light refreshments will be served - come share in the celebration, the warmth of community, and the joy of the season. The children of DKECC will make an appearance and join in the celebration.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2025 | 1 PM
$25 MEMBERS | $35 PUBLIC
Winter Social Eleanor Grant Jackson “I Will Survive”
Eleanor Jackson, who had us all dancing on the patio during Covid, returns to the JCC with her powerhouse voice to have you up singing and dancing to some favorites of the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Snacks Served.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026 | 2 PM
FREE MEMBERS | $15 PUBLIC
Come Hear The Mamales! A Tu B’Shevat Celebration
Meet Jodi, Maya, and Raquel — three powerhouse performers who met while appearing in Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish at the National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene. Bonding over their love of golden age music (and pickles!), they formed The Mamales on the Lower East Side in 2022.Now performing nationwide, this dynamic trio delights audiences with Yiddish favorites, Broadway classics, and timeless standards — all with their signature charm and harmony. Their name pays homage to the legendary Molly Picon. Refreshments served
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2026 | 2 PM
$20 Early Bird pricing for Members available through January 16
$30 Public and Members After Early Bird
$10 Per Child
Larry Siegel in Concert
Larry Siegel shares his talents and charm as he visits the JCC once again, playing his guitar and singing your favorite tunes.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2026 | 3 PM
FREE MEMBERS | $15 PUBLIC
Matinee at the J - There Was No Silence
Come watch this moving documentary focusing on the unrelenting quest to have a moment of silence acknowledged by the International Olympic Committee for the eleven Israeli athletes murdered at the 1972 Munich Olympics. JCC Rockland’s CEO, David Kirschtel, was a key player in fighting for this recognition. Filmmaker Joe Allen speaks following the film.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2026 | 1:30 PM
FREE TO MEMBERS AND PUBLIC
WEEKLY EVENTS
Everyone’s looking for community. Explore some of these member-led clubs, and see what may be right for you.
“THERE’S SOMETHING TO DO EVERY DAY AT THE J!”
Free and Open to Members Only
Women’s Views on the News
Dive into a discussion on a wide variety of topics.
THURSDAYS | 11 AM – 12:30 PM
Men’s Discussion Group
Men gather for conversation, camaraderie and always a good treat.
THURSDAYS | 12:45 – 2:15 PM
Trivia
A relaxed way to have fun with facts and nostalgia.
TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS | 11 AM – 1 2 PM
Open
Open Bridge
All levels are welcome to come by and join games.
FRIDAYS | 1 PM
Open Poker
New members are always welcome to join games.
TUESDAYS & WEDNESDAYS | 12 PM
Game Play
Daily games of Canasta, Mah Jongg and Bridge are always alive in several card rooms throughout the building. Members form their own games or we help you join one.
MONDAY– FRIDAY | 12 PM – 4 PM
Forum
Join us for a weekly discussion group on politics and current events. Engage in healthy discourse while respecting different opinions. Entire session presided over by neutral moderator who willuse Robert’s Rules of Order to manage the discussion. Come to learn. All viewpoints welcome.
MONDAYS | 12:30 PM – 2 PM
Neighborhood Author Series
The JCC partners with local authors who will come to spotlight their works and talk about their craft and writing process.
President Next by Former Senator David Carlucci
President Next reveals how unexpected contenders disrupt presidential politics, uncovering the patterns that distinguish brief challenges from those that transform American democracy.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 8 | 2 PM
FREE MEMBERS | $10 PUBLIC
Widowhood and Other Altered States: Coming of Age at Seventy Plus by Jackie Guttman
The author shares her essays about reinventing herself in the hope for connection and lots of shared laughter.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12 | 2 PM
FREE MEMBERS | $10 PUBLIC
A New Men’s Group for Connection and Conversations
The Goodfellows is a group for men that meets twice a month on Fridays for engaging lectures and meaningful conversations—no politics involved! On the first session of each month, enjoy thought-provoking lectures or special programs. The second session of the month features conversations which may include sharing memorabilia and personal stories. Check the website for updates.
FREE TO MEMBERS ONLY | SELECT FRIDAYS
Don’t miss these lectures!
January 23 | Lunch & Learn: Understanding Prostate Health with Dr. Fraiman
February 6 | The Films of Alfred Hitchcock with Brian Rose*
*The presenter will be on zoom. Attendees will be live at the JCC.
Join the conversations on these Fridays
January 30, February 27
Book Bunch
Participate in this member-led book club exploring a variety of authors and genres. Book Bunch meets on select Tuesdays at 2pm.
Registration Required
FREE AND OPEN TO MEMBERS ONLY
JANUARY 27 | 2 PM | Medicine River By Mary Annette Penney
MARCH 17 | 2 PM | Check website for book selection
Take a class to learn a new game, improve your skills and meet new friends.
Beginner Canasta with Lisa
SIX THURSDAYS | 10 AM - 12 PM
JAN 15 – FEB 19
MEMBERS $145 | PUBLIC $160
Advanced Beginner Canasta with Lisa
FIVE THURSDAYS | 10 AM - 12 PM
MAR 5 – APR 16 (No Class April 2 & 9)
MEMBERS $135 | PUBLIC $150
Beginner Mah Jongg with Lisa
FIVE MONDAYS | 10 AM - 12 PM
JAN 12 - FEB 23 (No Class Jan 19 & Feb 16)
MEMBERS $135 | PUBLIC $150
Adv Beginner Mah Jongg with Lisa
FIVE MONDAYS | 10 AM – 12 PM
MAR 9 - APR 6
MEMBERS $135 | PUBLIC $150
Beginner Evening Mah Jongg with Tamara
FIVE MONDAYS | 6:30 - 8:30 PM
JAN 12 - FEB 9
MEMBERS $135 | PUBLIC $150
Adv. Beginner Bridge with Meryl
EIGHT FRIDAYS | 10 AM – 12 PM
JAN 16 - MAR 6
MEMBERS $195 | PUBLIC $245
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Lunch and Learn - Understanding Prostate Health with Dr. Fraiman
Hear about prostate health and other urology concerns from a leader in innovation and advanced prostate therapy. Light lunch served. For Men Only.
Speaker: Dr. Mitchell Fraiman, Chief of Urology, Good Samaritan Hospital
FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2026 | 12 PM FREE TO MEMBERS ONLY
Still Becoming
We’re bringing women together in a friendly, non-therapeutic setting. Still Becoming is simply a space for sharing life experiences, connecting and supporting each other along the way.
Hosted by JCC member, Ruth Samuel who is a licensed marriage and family therapist.
TUESDAYS, DECEMBER 9 & 16, 2025 | 2 PM FREE AND OPEN TO MEMBERS ONLY
A MONTH OF RECOGNIZING STRENTH & RESILIENCE
Join us for Vashti’s Banquet on Wednesday, March 4th, 2026
Stay tuned for details about this event and more Bold Women offerings.
For more information about Community Membership, contact Membership at membership@jccrockland.org or call 845.362.4400 x189.
Everyone is Welcome Here
At JCC Rockland, we are proud to be the heart of Jewish life in our community, fostering an environment where everyone is welcome. We strive to create an inclusive atmosphere that embraces all backgrounds. If you require special accommodations to participate in our programming, please reach out to 845.362.4400 to discuss your needs and how we can support your participation.
s Barbara Lerche, Director of Adult Life Julie Schneyer, Program Coordinator, juliesc@jccrockland.org
