A place for culture

We never dreamed that our love of cultural exhibits, theater, and enlightening programming would make us a leading presenter of arts in the Greater Hartford Community...but it has.

The Mandell JCC's 400-seat Herbert Gilman Theater hosts dozens of performances annually, including the annual Jewish Film Festival, and our renowned Children's and Teens' musical productions.

On a larger scale, our Chase/Freedman Gallery presents six to eight major exhibits each year, with works ranging from contemporary to classical to avant garde. Opening night parties allow members to meet the artists, mingle with their friends, and get a sneak preview of the pieces on display.

For those who find joy in the written word, The New Jewish Book Festival is the only event of its kind in Hartford. Browsers can attend workshops and seminars; meet celebrity authors at presentations, receptions and book signings.

The annual Jewish Film Festival showcases international films depicting various aspects of Jewish life. Artists introduce their films, answer questions and participate in panel discussions that make the Film Festival an unforgettable experience.

And if you're looking for a hands-on creative experience, look to our Cultural Arts Program with classes for children and adults in pottery, dance, music and much, much more.