The Weinstein JCC is buzzing with activity this February and beyond, offering programs and events for all ages—from arts and culture to youth opportunities and community celebrations.
One of the highlights this season is the return of Second Stage, the student arm of Jewish Family Theatre, with a stage adaptation of Descendants: The Musical. Youth ages 11 to 18 are invited to participate in this tuition-based, six-week intensive rehearsal program, which culminates in a fully produced musical on the Sara Belle November Stage.
Rehearsals run Monday through Thursday evenings, 6–9 p.m., and Sunday afternoons, 1–5 p.m., with no rehearsal on Memorial Day. Performances are scheduled from June 17 through 28, with evening shows at 7 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. Tuition is $500, with limited need-based financial assistance available for families. In-person or video auditions will be held on February 22, and youth performers should prepare a one-minute Disney song with a backing track or sheet music.
For more information or to schedule an audition, contact Producing Artistic Director Debra Clinton at dclinton@weinsteinjcc.org.
Art lovers can enjoy Mayim: A Celebration of Water, an invitational exhibit of local artists running through February 6 in the Sara D. November Gallery. The exhibit explores the significance of water—or mayim—in Judaism, highlighting its spiritual, environmental, and human importance. The exhibit is free and open to the community during the Center’s normal hours of operation. Learn more about visiting the gallery at weinsteinjcc.org.
On February 5, the JCC will host Women’s Night Out – Kesher at The Loom: Quilling with Elana Asher, celebrating Tu B’Shvat with hands-on creativity. Local artist Elana Asher will guide participants in creating quilled designs inspired by the Sheva Minim, including olive branches and pomegranates. The event welcomes all skill levels and includes light refreshments. For tickets, registration, and details, visit weinsteinjcc.org.
Families can support the JCC preschool by participating in the annual Hamantaschen Fundraiser. Freshly baked by Shalom Kosher of Silver Spring, the cookies come in flavors such as apple, apricot, cherry, chocolate, lemon, poppy, prune, and raspberry. Online orders are due by February 9, with pick-up scheduled for February 23–26. Proceeds benefit preschool programming. To order and learn more, visit weinsteinjcc.org.
Looking ahead to March, the JCC will host Purim Around the World on Sunday, March 1, from noon to 3 p.m., with a sensory-friendly hour from 11 a.m. to noon. This community-wide festival celebrates Purim with live music, kosher food, carnival games, and family-friendly activities.
This year’s theme brings a global flavor to the celebration with crafts, performances, and experiences inspired by Jewish communities worldwide. Admission is free and open to the community, with RSVP appreciated. For full event details and RSVP information, visit weinsteinjcc.org.
Meanwhile, the JCC’s largest fundraising event of the year, A Night of Magic and Laughter, will take place on Thursday, March 5. The evening begins with a VIP Sponsor Reception from 5-6 p.m., followed by food, live music, and entertainment for all attendees.
Guests will hear inspiring stories about the JCC’s mission, can give through Tzedakah, and enjoy a comedy magic show by Erick Olson, featured on NBC’s America’s Got Talent. Attendees have praised Olson as “truly amazing and very, very funny,” with others calling his performance “simply fantastic… from beginning to end.”
Proceeds support the JCC’s mission to provide accessible programs, resources, and services that promote wellness, connection, and opportunity for individuals and families of all ages. For tickets and sponsorship information, visit weinsteinjcc.org.
As of going to press, the Friends of the Center Annual Giving Campaign is 88% of the way to its goal. Thanks to the incredible generosity of the community—including the Simon and Arenstein families—all donations to the campaign are being matched, doubling the impact of every gift. Just 12% more in contributions will bring the campaign to completion, ensuring the JCC can continue offering programs, services, and a sense of belonging that benefit families across the community.
Donations can be made online at friendsgive.org or weinsteinjcc.org, and the JCC offers many other ways to give and support its mission.
Summer plans are already underway at the Weinstein JCC, with registration open for all day camps. Programs range from outdoor adventures at Camp Hilbert to early childhood experiences at Camp Ganim, as well as specialty camps that encourage creativity and skill-building. Each camp day combines fun, learning, and personal growth in a safe and supportive environment. For camp registration and program details, visit weinsteinjcc.org.
With a full calendar of cultural, educational, and recreational programs this month and exciting events ahead in March and summer, the Weinstein JCC continues to serve as a vibrant hub for community, connection, and celebration.
For full details on all programs, classes, upcoming events, ticket sales, and ways to give, visit weinsteinjcc.org.