The J Welcomes Brad Meltzer for An Evening of Inspiration
March 6, 2025 | 7:00PM
Based on bestselling author Brad Meltzer’s viral commencement speech for his son’s 2024 graduating class at the University of Michigan, MAKE MAGIC is the little book of hope for anyone who has ever wished for more. More authenticity. More empathy. More gratitude. A more fulfilling life.
Presented by The Detroit Jewish Book Fair in partnership with The Henry & Delia Meyers Library
STORIED. The Dead Session
March 8, 2025 | 8:00PM
STORIED is back at The Berman Center for the Performing Arts for its third session: The Dead Session. Join us for an extraordinary concert experience that delves into the rich tapestry of Jewish culture and its connections to the legendary band, the Grateful Dead. This unique event promises to weave together music, storytelling, and community, celebrating the profound influence and contributions of Jewish artists and fans to the iconic rock band’s legacy.
Presented by The Berman Center for the Performing Arts
Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!
March 23, 2025 | 1:00PM
Whatever you do, don’t let the Pigeon star in his own musical production! With a script written by Mo Willems, the creator of the #1 New York Times best-selling, Caldecott Honor award-winning “Pigeon” picture books, and featuring music by Deborah Wicks La Puma (Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play!),TheaterWorksUSA‘s Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is even more fun than staying up late and having a hot dog party!
It’s not easy being the Pigeon-you never get to do ANYTHING! But when the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers (gasp!) late, maybe that wily bird CAN do something. Featuring an innovative mix of songs, and feathers, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is sure to get everyone’s wings flapping.
Presented by The Berman Center for the Performing Arts
Presented with support from the Cohn Haddow Children’s Performance Fund
The Shvesters
March 23, 2025 | 7:00PM
Timeless, dazzling, and distinctive – The Shvesters transform classic Yiddish and Jewish melodies into sophisticated contemporary harmonic arrangements.
Recognized for their tight harmonies, soulful grooves, and rich improvisation, The Shvesters (Chava Levi and Polina Fradkin) have gained a reputation for their unique, refreshing interpretations of Yiddish standards and traditional Jewish songs.
The duo has garnered widespread attention, with coverage from outlets like The Jewish Journal, Voice of America, and The Grammys – and sold-out concert halls in New York, Paris, Tel Aviv, and beyond.
The Shvesters are finally bringing their music to the stage in Detroit, supported by pianist Moshe Elmakias, with a performance that is sure to transport you to another world.
Presented by The Berman Center for the Performing Arts
Produced with support from Workmen’s Circle/Arbeter Ring and Seminars for Adult Jewish Enrichment (SAJE) at The J.
The Guy Mintus Trio
March 30, 2025 | 7:00PM
Guy Mintus is an Israeli-born piano performer, composer, vocalist, bandleader and educator. He possesses the finesse of a trained concert pianist, the energy of a rockstar, and the exploring spirit of a jazz musician. Guy is able to create a musical playground filled with joy, spontaneity, groove, and humor. Guy is the winner of the prestigious Leonard Bernstein Award, the Herb Alpert Young Jazz Composer Award and the audience’s prize at the Montreux Jazz Festival’s piano competition.
Presented by The Berman Center for the Performing Arts
With support from Burton A. Zipser and Sandra D. Zipser Foundation and Seminars for Adult Jewish Enrichment (SAJE) at The J