Celebrate Spring with the Ducoff Series in the Arts and Humanities at West Orange Library

The West Orange Library is pleased to announce the second Ducoff Lecture Series in the Arts and Humanities which begins in March and continues through May.  This popular series of programs has something for everyone interested in the arts and is funded by the family of the late Dr. Bernard Ducoff.  Dr. Ducoff gave many wonderful lectures on the lives of extraordinary Americans to packed audiences at the Library.  Following last year’s successful spring run which showcased music, painting, and New Jersey history, Dr. Ducoff’s wife Helen, son Daniel, and daughter Miriam graciously funded another three fantastic programs in the arts and humanities for spring 2013. 

The series kicks off on Sunday, March 10 at 2pm.  In “A Musical Salute to Molly Picon, Star of the Yiddish Theatre,” accomplished vocalist Dr. Diane Cypkin tells through English narration and song the life story of this exciting First Lady of the Yiddish Stage.   Indeed, the concert is a tribute to a legend!   At the keyboard is Lena Panfilova, graduate of the Moscow Conservatory. 

On Sunday, April 21 at 2pm, film historian Mark Gladstone will introduce the classic film “Make Way for Tomorrow,” directed by Leo McCarey.  This 1937 award winning film features New Jersey born actors Thomas Mitchell and Victor Moore.  Mr. Gladstone will screen the movie and then discuss the background and relevance of the film with the audience.

Finally, on Sunday, May 19 at 2pm, brilliant pianist Dennis Kobray becomes Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and performs his music at the keyboard.  Discover firsthand the music, feelings, life, and history of this world famous composer.  Mr. Kobray strikes chords that children can understand and adults will appreciate.

This terrific series helps us remember and honor Bernard Ducoff, by continuing his tradition of expanding the community’s knowledge in a fun and informative way at the Library.  Dr. Ducoff was a noted speaker and educator.  He held an earned doctorate in Historical Studies from the Graduate Theological Union and the University of California at Berkeley.  Dr. Ducoff served as the Executive Director of the Jewish Education Association of Metrowest New Jersey and as the editor of the International Journal of Jewish Education.