Updated 9/18/15: The Avalon Theatre’s run of Forest Hills-based filmmaker Aviva Kempner’s newest documentary has been extended for a THIRD time – now through Thursday, September 24th. And it’s getting terrific reviews.
Rosenwald is the story of Julius Rosenwald. A century ago, he rose to lead the most powerful retailer of its time – Sears, Roebuck and Co. He was also a civil rights champion who joined with Booker T. Washington to build more than 5,000 schools for African-American students in the Jim Crow South. And that’s not all he accomplished.
“His story fit perfectly into my pattern of making documentaries about under-known Jewish heroes,” writes Kempner in an essay about her project for The Wrap.
He was inspired by the Jewish doctrine of “tikkun olam,” repairing the world. Rosenwald was so moved after reading Booker T. Washington’s “Up from Slavery” and seeing the racial injustices in America that he concentrated on addressing the ills of racism.
Rosenwald opened in New York City on August 14th, and continues to premiere at theaters across the country over the next few weeks. The DC-area premieres took place Friday, August 28th. Through the past two weeks, Kempner and some of those featured in the film have made special appearances at some screenings. Click here for more information on guests, showtimes and to buy advance tickets.
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David Donaldson says
Aviva is a master at her craft. I encourage everyone to set aside a couple hours this week and take in a very enlightening production, story and movie at the Avalon Theater. Rosenwald. You won’t be disappointed.
Thank You,Aviva