Community & Special Events

The 23rd Annual Omaha Jewish Film Festival

Alan J. Levine Performing Arts Theater | Staenberg Omaha JCC
All film screenings begin at 6:00 pm.

Whether you’re a film enthusiast, someone who enjoys the latest Jewish-themed films, or someone looking for an entertaining night out, the Omaha Jewish Film Festival promises to provide you with a fulfilling cinematic experience and free popcorn.

Tuesday, November 11 | Matchmaking 2

Endlessly witty, visually rapturous, and sweetly romantic, Matchmaking 2 is a Romeo and Juliet-like saga (sans the tragedy!) of two young, eligible ultra-Orthodox singles looking for a match.

Wednesday, November 12 | The Property

Regina and her granddaughter Mika embark on a journey to Poland to reclaim their family property seized during World War II. But their quest quickly unravels and Regina seizes the opportunity to pursue her own hidden agenda: finding her long-lost love, from whom she was separated seventy years ago.

Write With Us Workshops

Monthly on Thursdays
November 13
December 11
5-7 pm
Staenberg Omaha JCC

If you have wanted to write your family’s story, that great American novel, or you have always wanted to try your hand at poetry, join us! Everyone, from absolute beginner to professional, is welcome to attend. We provide kosher snacks and writing prompts. There is no cost to attend but donations are always welcome.

Register by emailing Annette Vandekamp at avandekamp@jewishomaha.org.

How I Became a Jazz Singer

Saturday, November 15
Doors/Cocktail Hour | 6:30 pm
Show | 7:30 pm

Sunday, November 16
Doors/Cocktail Hour | 2 pm
Show | 3 pm

Advance: $20 | Day of: $25
Alan J. Levine Performing Arts Theater

Critically acclaimed jazz vocalists, Jackie Allen and Susie Thorne celebrate their lifelong musical journeys in a new show, How I Became a Jazz Singer. Seating is limited.

Film & Friends with Jewish Family Services

Friday, November 21 | A Real Pain
Friday, December 19 | F1
FREE admission
1:00 p.m. at the Staenberg Omaha JCC | Alan J. Levine Performing Arts Theater

Jewish Family Service presents free, monthly movie showings at the at the J. Open to members and non members, age 55 and older. This program is made possible by a grant from the Milton S. & Corinne N. Livingston Fund. Concessions will be available for purchase outside the theater.

MOMOTARO: The Peach Boy of Japan

Saturday, November 22
Pre-Show Activities | 6 pm
Show | 7 pm

Sunday, November 23
Pre-Show Activities | 1 pm
Show | 2 pm

Momotaro is a beloved Japanese folk tale about a boy who is miraculously born from a giant peach. The story is narrated in the traditional clown style by belovedJapanese figures, with iconic tricksters bringing chaos and cleverness along the way.

Live at the Levine: Kris Lager Band-Conduit Series

Saturday, December 6
Doors & Bar | 6:00 pm
Show | 7:00 pm
Alan J. Levine Performing Arts Theater

Get ready for an unforgettable experience as Nebraska’s own Kris Lager brings his electrifying variety show to the Staenberg Omaha JCC for three incredible nights this fall. Known as one of the state’s most seasoned and traveled musicians, Kris—an award-winning singer and songwriter from Lincoln originally—has spent over two decades touring the country, and now he’s bringing the party home. Each show promises a thrilling mix of live entertainment, featuring special musical guests, magicians, comedians, live painters, a live DJ, and plenty of surprises. It’s a one-of-a-kind evening you won’t want to miss.

Birds of Nebraska: Through Our Lens

Sunday, January 18
2:00 -3:00 p.m. 
Tickets: $10
Held at the Staenberg Omaha JCC in the Benjamin & Anna E. Wiesman Family Reception Room

In conjunction with the Central Flyway Photography exhibit coming to the Pop Up space of the Eisenberg Gallery this January

Photographers Gabriel Rivera and Jennifer Blankenship Rivera of Central Flyway Photography invite you to join them on a visual journey through the heart of Nebraska, where the Central Flyway carries millions of birds across the continent each year. Based in Omaha, the artists live at a natural crossroads, where the deciduous forests of the east meet the grasslands of the Great Plains and the doorway to the Rockies begins. It’s a landscape that reflects the incredible diversity of birds that pass through and call this region home. This presentation tells the story of how the artists discovered the world of birding and, in time, how photography became their way of exploring it more deeply. Drawing on their backgrounds in biology and psychology, they are fascinated not only by how birds look, but by how they live: their behavior, their character, and their connection to the landscapes they inhabit. Through images and stories, the artists share an intimate look at the birds of Nebraska and beyond, while hoping to inspire a deeper appreciation for the beauty and wonder waiting all around.

Learn more about Central Flyway Photography here.

Watercolor Workshops

2026 Dates Coming Soon! 
Staenberg Omaha JCC

Experience the enjoyment of creative growth through this series of one-day watercolor workshops led by international and award-winning watercolor artist, Telagio Baptista. Whether you have painted all your life or just want a new hobby, these workshops will provide you with the time and guidance to elevate your painting. Participants will receive individualized guidance from the instructor.