ARTS & CULTURE CLASSES FOR ADULTS

LITERARY ARTS (ADULTS 60+)

The Writers

“The Writers” is an on-going writing group that meets bi-monthly. Our key interest is writing plays, but we welcome writers who want to write monologues, screenplays, sketch comedy, etc. and who would like to contribute creatively to this serious group. Check the calendar or call (512) 735-8068 for upcoming dates and program selections.

Online Offerings

Cafe Au Lit Book Club

Unlike conventional book clubs where books are assigned, Café Au Lit is a monthly discussion group of adults who will each be given 5-10 minutes to discuss a book they have read or are reading now and critique it. Books can be any type. Modeled on the successful book club at the Austin Public Library, North Village Branch, Café Au Lit at the JCC will be facilitated by Stan and Elly Field. Check the calendar or call (512) 735-8068 for upcoming dates and program selections.

Online Offerings

Life of the New York Times

Start the week off right by joining this informal, ongoing look at “All the News that’s Fit to Print” in the New York Times. Led by Abby Kenigsberg, retired adjunct Professor of Media from Long Island University, Film Critic and News Anchor. Check the calendar or call (512) 735-8068 for upcoming dates and program selections.

Online Offerings

News & Schmooze

Join in on the conversation. Come discuss local, national and international news and keep up with what’s happening. Participants can bring in newspaper articles or research a topic of interest to share with the group. Check the calendar or call (512) 735-8068 for upcoming dates and program selections.

Online Offerings

Learn More about Shalom Austin’s Literary Arts

Click here to learn more about the literary arts offerings with Shalom Austin like the Literary Series.

VISUAL ARTS (ADULTS 60+)

Intergenerational Art

Wednesday 10:30-11:15AM

This program joins senior adults who are passionate about art and looking for a creative outlet together with Austin Jewish Academy 5th graders for a journey of intergenerational creative expression. Participants meet one Wednesday of the month for 90 minutes during the school year. Program culminates in a community Art Show in May.

Online Offerings

Mitzvah Knitters

Fridays 10-11AM

Give back to our community by volunteering your time and talent at the J! If you knit or crochet, or want to learn how, we have a weekly teacher attend to help you along the way. Blankets, stu ff ed animals, hats and scarves made will be given to those who are less fortunate. Materials are provided.

Online Offerings

JGallery

DAYS AND TIMES VARY

JGallery presents exhibitions and programs that aim to enhance knowledge, deepen understanding, expand art forms and take full advantage of each vibrant art exhibition season. For all ages.
JGallery is temporarily suspended due to COVID and construction. Please check back for updates.

Learn More about Shalom Austin’s Visual Arts

Click here to learn more about the visual arts offerings with Shalom Austin.

PERFORMING ARTS (ADULTS 60+)

Dell’s Angels Choir

Thursdays 1:30-2:30PM

The Dell’s Angels Choir is a performance group open to all singers with a basic understanding of reading music and the Chamber Singers, who meet for an extra hour in addition to Dell’s Angels rehearsals, require an audition. Performances occur approximately once a month at various locations such as retirement communities, hospitals, nursing homes and community events.

Online Offerings

A man wearing a top hat performs in Vaudeville on stage

Simcha Readers’ Theater

Tuesdays 1-3PM

Have you wanted to try acting but feel anxious about memorizing a script, or want to be educated and involved in producing live theater? Then Simcha Readers’ Theater is the place for you! Many actors in our group are seasoned performers, but some are not. We welcome you to put on the mask of comedy and tragedy with this non-memorizing, low pressure and nurturing group of thespians. Rehearse weekly and perform gratis readers’ theater for children and adults in the community. Add a little drama to your life!

Online Offerings

Learn More about Shalom Austin’s Theatre and Film

Click here to learn more about the theatre and film offerings with Shalom Austin including youth theatre and Austin Jewish Film Festival.

Need a ride?

Transportation may be available.

Door-to-door transportation is available for some of our programs. Our bus is lift accessible. Please contact Rachel Wimberley for information and reservations at (512) 735-8086 or rachel.wimberley@shalomaustin.org.