Arts and Culture

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Current Art Show at the Mandel JCC

Come experience The Meaning Within the Letters: Papercuts, a new exhibition by Nancy Schwartz-Katz.
The exhibit is on view through the end of September. For purchase inquiries,
contact Deborah Bobrow at dbobrow@mandeljcc.org or 216-593-6278.

Join us for an Artist Reception on Thursday, September 3, 2026 at 6:00pm-8:00pm.

Click below to view the Fall 2026 Programs & Events brochure, including a calendar:

What We Offer

Creative Arts
Author Events
Leisure games
Film Screenings
Learning & Conversations
Jewish Experiences

Unleash Your Creativity

Our hands-on classes help spark your inner self and engage your mind. No matter your age or experience, discover new interests and hobbies through art classes, card and tile games, book clubs and Israeli dance.

Topics of Interest

If you enjoy dialogue about current events and historical context, we have a variety of classes that will engage your mind and expand your views. From weekly news highlights to issues of race to Jewish studies, The J supports lifelong learning.

You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.– Maya Angelou

Cleveland Jewish FilmFest

Watch a diverse, international selection of dramas, documentaries, shorts and TV series that explore, educate, entertain and provoke discussion on the Jewish and Israeli experiences. From dramatic to humorous, we screen powerful and award-winning films for all movie lovers.

Cleveland Jewish Book Festival

Indulge in a celebration of books written by nationally, internationally and locally acclaimed
authors who share the stories behind their books We highlight a variety of books including Jewish life, historical fiction, Israeli literature, cooking, memoirs and more.

Playmakers Youth Theatre

An inclusive educational theatre program for students in grades kindergarten through college. We support and help build self-confidence, creativity, teamwork and an appreciation for the arts.

Men’s Club

Join the conversation at weekly morning programs where adult men connect with peers, socialize, share ideas and listen to guest speakers. Topics range from education, health, Israel, Jewish holidays, local economic development and more.

Creative Aging

Connect with adults aged 60 and above during weekday programs that include exercise, live entertainment, games and outings. We provide congregate Kosher lunches and free transportation to assist older and disabled adults to eliminate isolation.

Featured Classes

Jewish Life, Arts and Ideas, Adult

12/08/2026 - 12/08/2026

Stark County day trip featuring the First Ladies Library, Canton Museum of Art, and creative activities.

Enjoy a memorable day exploring three of Stark County’s distinctive attractions. Begin at the National First Ladies Library & Museum in Canton, where visitors can discover the lives and accomplishments of America’s First Ladies through engaging exhibits and historic artifacts. Then visit the Canton Museum of Art to explore contemporary and regional artwork, followed by a hands-on activity that inspires creativity. This trip combines history, art, and fun for all ages. Round-trip transportation provided.

Jewish Life, Arts and Ideas, Adult

10/28/2026 - 10/28/2026

Enjoy a day trip to Pittsburgh featuring the Heinz History Center and the National Aviary.

Spend a fun and educational day exploring Pittsburgh’s history and wildlife. Begin at the Heinz History Center, Pennsylvania’s largest history museum, where interactive exhibits highlight the people, innovations, and stories that shaped Western Pennsylvania. Then visit the National Aviary, home to more than 500 birds from around the world, for up-close encounters with colorful species in immersive habitats. This easy day trip combines culture, discovery, and family-friendly adventure. Includes two kosher meals and round-trip transportation.

Jewish Life, Arts and Ideas, Adult

10/12/2026 - 10/12/2026

Free workshop with acclaimed Israeli artist Hanoch Piven exploring identity and creativity through playful collage.

Join acclaimed Israeli artist Hanoch Piven for a free, hands-on workshop exploring his playful approach to creating portraits through collage. Piven will share stories from his life in and out of Israel, and invite participants to reflect on how places and experiences shape our identities. No artistic experience required! Made possible by @Akiva.

Arts and Ideas, Adult

10/22/2026 - 11/19/2026

Explore America's founding, its triumphs, contradictions, and enduring legacy with instructor Steve Schecter.

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of America's Founding: As America marks its 250th anniversary, explore the ideas, challenges, and contradictions that shaped the nation. Examine the unique character of the thirteen colonies, the creation of the Union, and the lasting legacies of George Washington, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson. Join instructor Steve Schecter for a thoughtful look at the triumphs, struggles, and enduring impact of America’s founding.

Arts and Ideas, Adult

09/28/2026 - 11/16/2026

Engage in lively discussion, share your insights, and ask questions with historian and educator Terry Pollack.

Explore the connections between history and current events with historian and educator Terry Pollack. Through engaging presentations and lively discussion, gain historical perspective on today’s headlines while sharing insights and asking questions in an interactive learning environment.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

12/02/2026 - 12/16/2026

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection. December 2, features author Merryl Goldberg, discussing her book, "Notes of Deception, How a Quartet of American Musicians Outwitted the KGB". December 16, we'll learn about the Industrial History of Cleveland.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

02/03/2027 - 02/17/2027

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection. February brings the Western Reserve Historical Society for two exciting talks. February 3, we'll honor African American History, and Cleveland inventor, Garrett Morgan. February 17, they'll discuss Battle for the Ballot: Cleveland's Suffragist Movement.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

11/04/2026 - 05/05/2027

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

01/06/2027 - 01/20/2027

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection. January 6, we'll hear the tales from, "Against All Odds: Four Teenagers Escape the Holocaust". January 20, Dr. Roxanne Sukol will discuss the Pillars of Wellness.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

03/03/2027 - 03/17/2027

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection. March 3, Women in History will lead a fun theatrical presentation on First Lady's Tea. March 17 we'll learn about the Historical Women in Mathmatics.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

05/05/2027 - 05/19/2027

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection. The Western Reserve Historical Society closes our series with two May presentations. May 5 they'll talk about Jazz in Cleveland. May 19 is an interactive session, Murder in the Limelight: A Show-Stopping Mystery.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

11/04/2026 - 11/18/2026

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

04/07/2027 - 04/07/2027

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection. Women in History will share a performance on the Revolutionary Tea Party.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

12/16/2026 - 12/16/2026

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection. We'll learn about the Industrial History of Cleveland.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

12/02/2026 - 12/02/2026

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Prime Time Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults who want to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session includes guided movement, a healthy lunch, and fund, engaging activities. Author Merryl Goldeberg will discuss her book, "Notes of Deception, How a Quartet of American Musicians Outwitted the KGB".

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

02/17/2027 - 02/17/2027

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection. Learn about Battle for the Ballot: Cleveland's Suffragist Movement.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

02/03/2027 - 02/03/2027

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection. Learn about Cleveland inventor, Garrett Morgan.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

01/20/2027 - 01/20/2027

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection. Dr. Sukol will share the Pillars of Wellness.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

01/06/2027 - 01/06/2027

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection. David Minc will share his families story, "Against All Odds: Four Teenagers Escape the Holocaust."

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

03/17/2027 - 03/17/2027

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection. Learn about Historical Women in Mathematics.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

03/03/2027 - 03/03/2027

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection. Women in History will present a lively performance on First Lady's Tea.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

05/19/2027 - 05/19/2027

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection. The Western Reserve Historical Society will lead us in an interactive program, Murder in the Limelight: A Show-Stopping Mystery.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

05/05/2027 - 05/05/2027

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection. The Western Reserve Historical Society will present on Jazz in Cleveland.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

11/18/2026 - 11/18/2026

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection. Learn about the Return of the Eastern Bluebird from the Holden Arboretum.

Fitness, Arts and Ideas, Adult

11/04/2026 - 11/04/2026

Active adults stay sharp, strong, and connected with movement, healthy lunch, learning, wellness, and community.

The Primetime Wellness Club is a twice-monthly program for active adults looking to stay sharp, strong, and socially connected. Each session features guided movement, a healthy Kosher lunch, and fun, engaging activities promoting physical wellness, lifelong learning, and community connection.

Arts and Ideas Leadership

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