SUN MAY 17
CELEBRATE ISRAEL FESTIVAL
It’s that time of year again, and to celebrate Israel’s 67th year of independence, Rancho Park transforms itself into the Holy Land for a day. This year’s “Jerusalem of Gold” theme lets attendees visit various mock sites of Jerusalem, including a 32-foot-long Kotel; learn about the Old City; and enjoy plenty of activities such as Judaic arts and crafts. Major Israeli singer Shlomi Shabat will perform as part of the main event. Make sure to grab a snack or two from one of the many kosher vendors participating. And don’t forget to stop by the Jewish Journal booth, pick up a free fan and say hello. 11 a.m. $6 (advance), $10 (at door). Cheviot Hills Recreation Center, 2551 Motor Ave., Los Angeles. (818) 836-6700. ” target=”_blank”>yiddishinstitute.org.
SANDRA BERNHARD
UnCabaret presents an evening of laughter and song featuring the one and only Sandra Bernhard. A comedian and actress since the 1970s, Bernhard has made the rounds of “The Richard Pryor Show,” “Roseanne” and “Late Night With David Letterman,” and of course off-Broadway and at the Orpheum Theatre in her own one-woman shows. Tonight’s show is hosted by Beth Lapides and is under the musical direction of Mitch Kaplan. The comedy will be edgy, but that’s how you know it’s working. 8 p.m. $40. UnCabaret AuLac, 710 W. First St., Los Angeles. (213) 706-3630. minglewithsinglesdances@meetup.com.
TUE MAY 19
JANE HIRSHFIELD
The veteran poet and essayist shares her latest two works — “Ten Windows: How Great Poems Transform the World,” a dazzling collection of essays on poetry, and “The Beauty,” her newest book of poems. Jane Hirshfield, who was awarded the 70th Academy Fellowship for distinguished poetic achievement by the Academy of American Poets (held by the likes of Robert Frost), will be in conversation with author Louise Steinman. Join these women as they walk us through what makes poems so powerful. Purchase one or both books and Hirshfield will sign them after the program. 7:15 p.m. Free. RSVP recommended. Mark Taper Auditorium/Central Library, 630 W. Fifth St., Los Angeles. (213) 228-7500. WED MAY 20
“BEING LGBT AND A MINORITY IN L.A.”
Coming out can be hard, and coming out to your Jewish/Black/Asian/Latino family has the potential to make things even more complicated. The Anti-Defamation League invites you to an evening of learning and sharing, starting with an optional tour of the renovated Wilshire Boulevard Temple, followed by a screening of several clips from the award-winning TV series “Transparent,” and then a panel discussion featuring Wilson Cruz, Eileen Ma, Seth Marnin and Gamal Palmer. And the cherry on top — a dessert reception. 7 p.m. $12 (advance), $15 (at door). Wilshire Boulevard Temple, 3663 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. (310) 446-4232. FRI MAY 22
“WINNING: THE RACING LIFE OF PAUL NEWMAN”
In the history books, Paul Newman, an Academy Award-winning actor with a 50-year career, is listed as one of the most prolific and revered actors in American cinema — and a charitable heart, to boot. What might come as a surprise is Newman’s 35-year racing career, during which he won four national championships as a professional driver. Check him out in this new documentary from Adam Carolla and Nate Adams, featuring Tom Cruise, Patrick Dempsey and Robert Redford. Various times. Check local listings or purchase on demand.
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