FILM | Cinema Song Circle: A JOURNEY OF SPIRIT

Join the Cinema Song Circle, a special event of participatory singing celebrating Debbie Friedman’s music led by Chava Mirel followed by a screening of Ann Coppel’s documentary, A JOURNEY OF SPIRIT.

A JOURNEY OF SPIRIT (2004) is a wonderfully vibrant and moving film that made us laugh, cry and sing when it first premiered at the Seattle Jewish Film Festival. This inspirational story of the pre-eminent Jewish singer-songwriter Debbie Friedman and her profound impact on modern worship is so relevant today, offering insights into the woman, her music and influence across boundaries of religion, culture, age and gender.

Many in Seattle recall attending Friedman’s powerhouse Benaroya Hall performance in 2002. Scenes from that concert appear numerous times in Coppel’s documentary. Come rewatch the film together and join in a song circle of belonging and healing.

The only requirement needed to enjoy this film is to have an open heart. And, if you don’t, by the time the film is over, Debbie will have found a way to open it. She invites everyone to laugh, cry, and sing!” says Coppel, whose documentary, A JOURNEY OF SPIRIT, is as much a celebration of Friedman’s musical journey as it is her exceptional ability to move audiences and transmit Jewish learning through her music.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Part I: Song Circle 
Local musician and song leader Chava Mirel will open and lead the first part of the program, a participatory song circle featuring Debbie Friedman’s best-known songs, many still performed at synagogues across the country. All experience levels are welcome. This is a belonging space that prioritizes community connections and spiritual celebration.

Part II: Film Screening
A JOURNEY OF SPIRIT is an award-winning television documentary telling the story of the remarkable singer, songwriter and guitarist Debbie Friedman. One of the preeminent women in contemporary Jewish culture, Debbie has integrated contemporary melody with Jewish liturgy to transform Jewish sacred music, making the text accessible to a large and diverse audience. Directed by Ann Coppel | USA 2004 | 75m | English

Part III: Q&A
Following the film presentation, director Ann Coppel and musician Chava Mirel will discuss their personal connections and experiences knowing Friedman and her family, the legacy of her music and the ways Friedman’s story continues to inspire us decades later.

General admission | Doors open 30 min. before showtime.

Concessions available for purchase through the J Café.

Part of SJCC Blueprint for Belonging.

View policies, terms + conditions on our SJCC Box Office + Venue Policies page. 

About 

Chava Mirel is a unique being in the world of music and spirit, defying classifications of style or genre. Celebrated for her rich, luxurious vocals, lush harmonies and rhythmic phrasing, Mirel is also known for her loving and compassionate presence in all settings–spiritual gatherings, concert halls, classrooms and jazz clubs. She imbues her music and teachings with the universal themes of hope, caring, connection and inclusion. Mirel also serves as Music Director of Temple Beth Am in Seattle. To learn more, visit chavamirel.com

Filmmaker Ann Coppel is an award-winning writer, producer and director. After a long and successful career creating a wide range of films and videos for business and education, her recent work includes illustrated shorts. Her documentary, A JOURNEY OF SPIRIT, was a seven-year labor of love and is the film she is most proud of. To learn more, visit ajourneyofspirit.com and anncoppelproductions.com