The Denver Jewish art scene is alive and well, thanks to the Neustadt JAAMM Festival. JAAMM, an acronym that represents Jewish Arts, Authors, Movies, and Music, honors international and local artists at the Mizel Arts and Culture Center at the JCC. Tim Campbell, the Program Director of the Mizel Arts and Culture Center, says the festival will include “some traditional components as well as a few new specials.” Patrons can expect the traditional bookstore with novels written by Jewish Book Council authors, an art show that highlights local photographer, Wendy Shattil, live music, interactive demonstrations, and theatre. Though, the Neustadt JAAMM Festival offers more than just entertainment; it serves as a vital platform for dialogue, preserves and uplifts Jewish heritage, and invites the broader community to engage with a myriad of artists.

The Maccabeats are a singing squad known for their acapella covers and parodies of contemporary hits using Jewish-themed lyrics. They will kick off opening night on September 11, accompanied by a local acapella group.

On September 18, sample the flavors of the middle east with Miami chef, Yaniv Cohen, otherwise known as “The Spice Detective.” He will offer a tasting demonstration in addition to a book signing. Participants will take home flavored popcorn, a spice jar, and additional samples of middle eastern cuisine.

Then, celebrate ‘Jillith Fair’ on September 21 to honor the life of Jill Sobule. A Denver native, Jill wrote the hit song “I Kissed a Girl” as well as the musical, “F*ck7thGrade.” Jill was a well-known pop artist in the early 90’s and died unexpectedly earlier this year. “She grew up coming to the JCC Denver, and we are proud to have a tribute celebrating her life and contribution to the Denver artistic community,” Tim adds. Jillith Fair will include local celebrity performances as well as a declaration of Jill Sobule Day by the City Council of Denver.

The lineup continues September 26 and 27 with a one-man-show by comedian Gary Gulman called “Grandiloquent,” exploring themes of insecurity and self-acceptance.

Finally, from September 25 through October 12, the Mizel Arts and Culture Center will be teaming up with the local production company, Veritas, to produce “Jerry’s Girls,” a musical review of all things Jerry Herman. Herman is the writer of Hello, Dolly!, Mame, and La Cage Aux Folles.

The festival’s inclusive programming encourages audiences to reflect on identity, resilience, and the power of storytelling across generations and backgrounds. At a time when nuance and empathy are often lost in the noise, the Neustadt JAAMM Festival creates space for thoughtful engagement, joyful discovery, and cross-cultural solidarity. The festival wouldn’t be possible without Kathy Neustadt’s continued contributions. Kathy, a Denver native herself, was honored at the Rocky Mountain Jewish Historical Society for the Heritage Award and is proud to bring back the festival for the 18th season this year. Kathy says, “Almost twenty years ago, [JAAMM] was just a book fair and author talks. Then we thought, why not make it an arts and culture event? That was right up my alley. I love the arts and the JCC community. This was a great way to marry the two. I love the diversity of this year’s lineup – theatre, music, and comedy. There’s a little something for everyone.”

The Neustadt JAAMM festival reinforces the idea that art and culture are not luxuries, but essential tools for building bridges, combating prejudice, and fostering a more connected and compassionate society. We can’t wait to celebrate all things art with you this fall.

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