The Dybbuk: A Yiddish Kino & Shmues

In celebration of the season, we will be screening Der dibuk, or (The Dybbuk, Poland, 1937), based on S. Anski's popular 1917 play. Directed by Michał Waszyński and starring dramatic actor Lili Liliana, this "Hasidic gothic expressionist" film is the gem of interwar Polish cinema and perhaps the greatest Yiddish movie of all time.

In a yeshiva in 19th century Poland, two young men seal their friendship by betrothing their unborn children; one dies before he can ever meet his son, Khonen. Years later, the surviving friend is a rich man with an eligible only daughter, Leah (Liliana). When poor yeshiva student Khonen arrives in town, Leah falls immediately in love with him, against her father's wishes. By calling unlawfully upon powers from beyond the grave, can the two fated lovers find a way to be together?

The film (123 min, in Yiddish with English subtitles), will be followed by an hour of relaxed, peer-led Yiddish shmoozing and Dybbuk-related activities. We will be showing the newly restored version by Lobster Films, which is not widely available in Canada.

This event is for Yiddish learners and speakers of all levels (one course in Yiddish or the equivalent is recommended). Vocabulary for shmoozing about film and the supernatural will be provided.

Sunday, October 11th from 2-5pm

Kirman Library at the Peretz Centre

6184 Ash St., Vancouver, BC V5Z 3G9​

➤   How to Get Here / Building & Accessibility Information

Free parking is available on the street or in the underground parkade.

Registration is required in advance as space is limited (max. 12 people). Early registration is available for Peretz Centre members until September 15th.

This program is sponsored by the Shaya Kirman Memorial Fund for Yiddish Culture. Stay tuned for more!