Jacob Burns Film Center to Host Tribute to Debbie Friedman

The Jacob Burns Film Center will host a special event before the opening of their 2011 Westchester Jewish Film Festival. A Journey of Spirit, a film documenting the life of Debbie Friedman will be shown on Tuesday, March 22, at 7 pm to celebrate the life of this beloved Jewish singer/songwriter, teacher and passionate Jewish visionary. Friedman died on January 9, 2011 and had a profound influence on contemporary Jewish music.

Many in Westchester were deeply touched by her music and her contribution to local Jewish congregations. Her music was often used in services to promote spirituality, healing, and community. Rabbi Shira Milgrom and Cantor Mo Glazman of Congregation Kol Ami in White Plains, Cantor Jill Abramson of Westchester Reform Temple in Scarsdale and Cantor Jack Mendelson of Temple Israel Center in White Plains, will attend and share memories and thoughts about this remarkable woman and her music after the screening of the film.

A Journey of Spirit tells the story of the legendary singer, songwriter and guitarist Debbie Friedman, as it explores her indelible contribution to the transformation of liberal Jewish worship and the growth of the new profession of Jewish singer/songwriter. This moving documentary highlights a lively and heartfelt exchange which places the debate about contemporary versus traditional prayer music squarely on the table, featuring interviews with many of our local Westchester clergy as well as the 2004 children’s choir from Congregation Kol Ami in White Plains.

A Journey of Spirit - Ann Coppel. 2004. 75m. NR. US.
Tuesday March 22 at 7 pm
Advanced ticket reservations recommended

To see the full Festival schedule and reserve tickets, click here: