Jewish Legends of Comedy: Mel Brooks, Jerry Seinfeld, and Billy Crystal at Temple Beth El, Huntington

Jewish Legends of Comedy:
Mel Brooks, Jerry Seinfeld, and Billy Crystal

presented by Film Historian Philip Harwood

The Jewish people have perfected comedy into an art form. There have been many comedians, actors, writers, and playwrights who have entertained us through the years with their sense of humor. Film Historian Philip Harwood returns to discuss three very influential artists in the world of comedy - three humorous men who have made us laugh in very different ways. Three men whose brands of comedy have crossed generational lines and resonated with different generations, through the years.

DATES: Thursday, May 12, Thursday, May 19, Thursday, May 26

TIME: 7:00PM

PLACE: Temple Beth El, Huntington, 660 Park Avenue, Huntington, NY 11743, 631-421-5835, www.tbeli.org

Free and open to the community

Mel Brooks: It’s Good To Be The King - Thursday, May 12th at 7:00 p.m.

Beginning his career as a writer for Sid Caesar, then producing the television series Get Smart, Brooks would make his mark in the film industry with some very noteworthy film parodies. Who can forget Blazing Saddles, Young Frankenstein, The Producers, or even High Anxiety?

We will see clips from these films, as well as other rarely seen footage.

Jerry Seinfeld: Nothing Wrong With That - Thursday, May 19th at 7:00 p.m.

Growing up on Long Island, Jerry Seinfeld is best known for his very successful series, Seinfeld, a show about nothing. We will enjoy highlights from Jerry Seinfeld’s career, including an overview of the top ten Seinfeld episodes. Which is your favorite? Elaine’s Dance? Jerry’s puffy shirt? So many to choose from.

Billy Crystal: You look Mahvelous! - Thursday, May 26th at 7:00 p.m.

From standup comic to TV's SOAP, to films (When Harry Met Sally, City Slickers) to Comic Relief and a best-selling book (700 Sundays) which led to a successful Broadway play, Billy Crystal makes us laugh with his hilarious impersonations, poignant memories of his family in Long Beach, NY, as well as a trip to Katz's Deli.

About Philip Harwood:

Philip Harwood is a Film Historian who teaches at LIU: C.W. Post, 92nd Street Y, and the JCC In Manhattan. He was Coordinator for Lifelong Learning at Queens College, and has taught at the New School For Social Research. He also presents programs at the Cinema Arts Centre, as well as being a published author. He is currently working on a book on Great Teams In Films of 1935.