ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE 2016

©Zvi Tolkovski

Zvi Tolkovski: From the Holy Land Czech – Israeli Colloquium: “ Is there a Jewish art? “ October 2016

ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016

CONTENT

DANCE...... 4 PHOTOGRAPHY ...... 7 MUSIC ...... 8 CINEMA ...... 19 THEATRE ...... 22 ARCHITECTURE ...... 22 ART...... 23 LITERATURE ...... 25 OTHER ...... 27

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016

Dear Friends of Israeli Culture,

Most of us cannot imagine living without arts. It has an almost mysterious power to raise us above the routine of everyday life. Whether it is film, visual art, literature, music, theater or dance, art in all its manifestations can connect and communicate across different cultures and deeply enrich its surroundings.

During 2016, we were pleased to help and uncover new layers of Israeli culture and assist in promoting it in and other parts of the country. Please use the following pages to recall moments spent with Israeli culture this past year. You can start to look forward to 2017 which will bring many different and promising cultural experiences.

We thank all our partners, institutions, artists and audience for their participation and involvement in bringing this diverse and unique Israeli culture to the Czech Republic.

Tereza Regnerová Head of Cultural Affairs Embassy of , Prague

February 2, 2017

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DANCE

RUBY EDELMAN'S WORKSHOP AT MUSIC AND DANCE FACULTY January 12 - 16, 7:30 pm, Music and Dance Faculty of the Academy of Performing Arts (HAMU), Prague Final public performance: January 16, 3 pm, H0021 - Department of Pantomime, HAMU, Prague

Ruby Edelman, CEO and Artistic Co-director of the Machol Shalem Dance House in , wants within his worksop to investigate with the group the physicality and dynamics of public demonstration act. Workshop's aim is to take this social/political term and review it through de-construction of physical acts performed by individuals or a group. https://www.facebook.com/events/572732646207483/

FRANCESCA FOSCARINI / YASMEEN GODDER – GUT GIFT June 6. - 7, 20:00, PONEC, Tanec Praha

Yasmeen Godder and Francesca Foscarini have created a solo performance symbolizing a captivating and intimate interaction between the inner and outer space, between body and mind, the seen and the sensed.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UwtJSXlrO_g

GILI NAVOT July 11 – 16, Czech National Ballet, Anenské Square, Prague

The eighth annual CONTEMPORARY DANCE WORKSHOP PRAGUE hosted a member of Ohad Naharin’s ensemble - Gili Navot. http://icdw-prague.com/en

KIBBUTZ RAMAT YOHANAN – INTERNATIONAL FOLKLORE FESTIVAL IN ČERVENÝ KOSTELEC August 17 – 20, 18:00, natural area by the J. K. Tyl Theater

62nd International Folklore Festival in Červený Kostelec hosted a dance group composed of the members of kibbutz Ramat Yohanan.

http://www.folklorck.cz/

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016

EINAT GANZ August 18, 18:00, Improvisation in cooperation with Moving Orchestra, Church of St. Catherine, Náměstí 1. Máje, Chomutov, festival “Obnažení” / “Uncovered” August 20, 19:00, Entropy, Church of St. Catherine, Náměstí 1. Máje, Chomutov, festival “Obnažení” / “Uncovered” August 22, 11:00, Contemporary dance and improvisation workshop, Truhlárna, Rokycanova 33, Prague Choreographer and dancer, Einat Ganz, had a solo performance at the Chomutov festival “Obnažení” / “Uncovered”. Project Entropy was created in cooperation with the scenographer Rote Blum and Karissa Pullman’s music and was inspired by the author’s experience of losing her mother.

http://www.obnazeni.cz/

GAGA WORKSHOP PRAGUE WITH ADI SALANT, AN ART CO-DIRECTOR OF THE BATSHEVA DANCE COMPANY August 29 – September 3, National Theater Ballet Halls, Anenské Square 2, Prague

Gaga/dancers is open to professional dancers from all over the world, offering them the opportunity to taste training methods of Batsheva Dance Company. Gaga/people classes are open to all people regardless of their background in dance or movement. http://www.420people.org/en/gaga

HEART MATTERS - NITZAN LEDERMAN October 9, Na Cucky Theater, Olomouc October 10, 19:30, Na Cucky Theater, Olomouc, public workshop October 12, 20:00, Moving Station (Johan o.s.), Plzeň

Nitzan Lederman brought to Olomouc and Plzeň her solo show “Heart Matters” which had been introduced for the first time last year at the dance festival Machol Shalem in Jerusalem. The audience also had the opportunity to participate in a workshop and a discussion with the artist. http://www.divadlonacucky.cz/index.php?page=activities

COLLECTIVE LOSS OF MEMORY October 15, 20:00, theater Ponec, Prague

„The joy of killing gives one a unique feeling of absolute power and freedom. But for the victims it is hell itself. And random witnesses? They do nothing. Suffering from collective loss of memory they just watch.“ (theatre Ponec). The performance took place at the Ponec theater. http://www.divadloponec.cz/performance/collective-loss-of-memory

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TWO WORLDS / ONE WORLD Premiere: November 17, 18:30, National Moravian-Silesian Theater, Ostrava

The performance TWO WORLDS/ONE WORLD connected three internationally acclaimed artists – Jiří Kylián, Ohad Naharin, and Itzik Galili, who, in an idiosyncratic way, presented the topic of a relationship between a man and a woman – the most authentic source of inspiration for the art of dancing. http://www.ndm.cz/en/ballet/instance/3976-two-worlds-one- world/2016-11-24/20219/

OTHERLANDS - PREMIERE December 20, 20:00, Theater Ponec, Prague

World‘s premiere of dance-movement project „Otherlands“ took place at Prague PONEC theater and then moved to Israel in January.

http://www.divadloponec.cz/performance/otherlands

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016 PHOTOGRAPHY

THE ANCIENT JEWISH COMMUNITY OF YEMEN January 14, 6 pm, Jewish Museum - Auditorium Maiselova 15, Prague

Photography exhibition opening was accompanied by a lecture by the Israeli geography photographer and culture documentarist Naftali Hilger, who has long focused on the Jewish aspects of the Islamic and Arab world. http://www.jewishmuseum.cz/en/program-and- education/events/796/

POPE FRANCIS IN THE HOLY LAND until January 31, St. Barbara's Church, Kutna Hora February 12, Dominican monastery, České Budějovice April 12, Cathedral of God-Saviour, Ostrava May 16, Václav Štech´s Library, Slaný August 8, Parish church Kyjov

Beautiful, sometimes serious or even touching and sometimes humorous shots from his visit taken by several outstanding photographers were to be seen in Kutná hora, České Budějovice, Ostrava, Slaný and Kyjov. http://embassies.gov.il/Praha/NewsAndEvents/Pages/Vystava-Papez-Frantisek-ve-Svate-zemi- pokracuje-.aspx

FELIX LUPA July 13 – August 8, gallery Koníček in Lucerna, Prague

The exhibition of Felix Lupa’s photographs called „Just Street Photography“ captured the atmosphere of the streets in .

http://www.felixlupa.com/

DROR DAUM - SCARED TO LIVE October 11 - October 30, Etc. Gallery, Prague

Dror Daum views the subject of authenticity in an intelligent and indirect way. The exhibition was a part of the 6th Fotograf festival.

http://fotografestival.cz/2016/en/event/scared-to-live

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016 MUSIC

AYAL ADLER AT EUROART January 19, 7:30 pm, Martinu Hall, Lichtenstein Palace, Prague

Pianist Aneta Majerova and The Stamic Quartet performed "Shades....to Colours" by Israeli composer Ayal Adler.

http://www.euroart.cz/index.php?cmd=page&id=4&lang=cs

JAZZ AND ETHNO-WORLD MUSING January 25, 7 pm, Maisel synagogue, Prague

The Israeli musicians Yinon Muallem (percussion, oud, vocals) and Guy Mintus (accordion) presented their project „Off Lines“. https://www.evensi.cz/jazz-amp-ethno-world-musing-maiselova- synagoga/166887957

GALA CONCERT AT THE SPANISH SYNAGOGUE January 27, 6 pm, Spanish Synagogue, Prague

The Gala Concert to commemorate the International Holocaust Memorial Day featured scores by Dmitri Shostakovich, -Bartholdy and Sylvie Bodorová performed by Luboš Skala and the Chamber Orchestra Quattro conducted by Marek Štilec.

HADAR NOIBERG TRIO February 6, 7 pm, Culture House Podmokly, Podmokly u Susice

The Jewish synagogue in Podmokly survived thanks to the kind contributions of municipality and active members of the Association for the synagogue renewal. In order to contribute to further reconstruction, the Association organized a concert of Israeli jazz.

https://www.facebook.com/events/811312888994934/

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016

JAZZINEC: OMER KLEIN - PIANO SOLO February 19, 7 pm, Bohuslav Martinu Concert Hall, Trutnov May 23, 19:30 Nuselská radnice, Prague

The music of pianist and composer Omer Klein has been called “borderless” by the New York Times and “astonishing” by Westdeutsche Zeitung. This year the Czech audience had two opportunities to hear the spontaneous improvisation of Omer Klein. http://jazzinec.cz/english/

YAEL HORWITZ - DOS TIERRAS February 23, 7:30 pm, New Town Hall, Prague

Yael Horwitz’s project "Dos Tierras" (meaning Two Lands) combines Andalusian music with the Mediterranean music from her home city Jerusalem.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1090431754335087/

ASSAF KEHATI & FRIENDS March 6,19:30 S - klub, Valašské Meziříčí

The famous New York based Israeli jazzman and guitar player performed in Valašské Meziříčí, as part of a series of programs about Israel.

http://www.assafkehati.com/

BLACK SACHBAK March 19, 19:00, Modrá vopice

The thrash metal band Black Sachbak performed at the multi-genre festival ŽIŽKOVSKÁ NOC 2016.

https://blacksachbak1.bandcamp.com/

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016

VERONIKA BÖHMOVÁ & LAHAV SHANI: CZECH PHILHARMONIC Saturday, April 02, 15:00 Rudolfinum, Prague

Wagner and Beethoven took place in Rudolfinum under the baton of Lahav Shani and performed by the pianist Veronika Böhmová. The talented 27 year old Israeli conductor Lahav Shani launched his career in 2013 when he won the first prize in the Gustav Mahler Conducting Competition in Bamberg International. Since then he has become one of the most discussed young conducting talents.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=592D1FZyMAU

YARON HERMAN, ZIV RAVITZ April 08, 19:30 JAZZFESTBRNO, Sono Music Club, Brno

The star of Israeli pianist Yaron Herman was shining especially for Brno audience. http://www.jazzfestbrno.cz/en/

MALOX TOUR April 11, 20:00 Divadlo hudby, Olomouc

MALOX brought the raw experience of music at its best: virtuoso musicianship, danceable compositions and energy that can move mountains - with only two people on the stage!

http://www.olmuart.cz/kalendar/malox-izrael--528/

ARI EREV BAND - TEMPLFEST April 16, 20:30 Templfest, Nová scéna, Ostrava

Part of the 5th year of the Templfest was a concert of Ari Erev. The Israeli pianist and composer performed together with Czech top artists and presented his new album „Flow“. http://arierev.com/

MAŽIF - DAVID SMADAR, TABASKER April 18, 19:00 Jerusalem Synagogue, Prague

Within another annual festival of Jewish music MAŽIF - Small Jewish Festival, Czech Tabasker group performed accompanied by Israeli singer David Smadar. http://mazif-com.webnode.cz/program/

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016

SHALOSH May 7, 19:30 Chodovská tvrz, Ledvinova 9, Prague

Members of Shalosh brought the genre to another level by entwining competing styles of music such as rock, classical and electronic.

http://www.ticketpro.cz/jnp/hudba/ruzne-zanry/1778881-shalosh-izrael- .html

JEWISH COMPOSERS FROM THE ROMANTIC PERIOD AND MODERN ISRAEL: ENSEMBLE MOSCHELES May 10, 18:30 Conservatory of J. Deyl, Maltézské náměstí, Prague

Ensemble Moscheles and composer Ayal Adler organized a concert of Jewish composers from the period of romanticism and modern Israel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PH-vihW9BS0

PRAGUE SPRING 2016: DANIEL BARENBOIM & GIL SHAHAM May 15, 20:00 Prague, Municipal house May 29, 20:00 Prague, Municipal house

Daniel Barenboim, the current chief conductor of the State Opera, performed at the Municipal House.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qkQxlMWcP68

DIWAN SAZ June 12, 13:00, Výstaviště Holešovice, Prague

As part of the 19th annual Respect Festival, a multicultural group of musicians called Diwan Saz performed and played ancient music from Central Asia, Turkey, Persia, and the Holy Land. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8HdKcgo8x7A

ORI ALBOHER June 26, 13:00, Radio 1 stage Kampa Park, 15:00, United Islands

Ori Alboher – an electropop songwriter from Jerusalem accepted the invitation to the 13th annual festival United Islands. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6a7xrturAA

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016

NINET June 26, 17:30, Park Stage, Výstaviště, Prague Metronome Festival

Ninet Tayeb performed with an accompanying rock band in a classical composition enriched with strings and occasional electronic effects and riffs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQBv_YgkHI8

KOSHA DILLZ June 20, 18:00, Cafe Prostor, Prague

An American rapper with Israeli roots visited Prague during his European tour. Kosha Dillz is composing his music in English, Hebrew and Spanish. http://koshadillzworld.com/

HILA FAHIMA July 4, 20:00, Municipal House, Smetanova síň

Young Israeli soprano Hila Fahima and Tomáš Netopil performed in the closing concert of Prague Spring.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Yzfr4A97yo

DAN YUHAS July 3 – 10, Haus Urban Trstěnice

Dan Yuhas, composer and leader of the international group focusing on contemporary music called Israel Contemporary Players Tel Aviv, was the guest lecturer of the 20th Percussion Workshop. http://www.danyuhas.com/index.php

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016

GULAZA July 7, 17:00, Boskovice

Gulaza participated in the program of famous festival in Jewish quarter Boskovice. The band draws inspiration from the Yemenite Jewish tradition according to which musical instruments are not used as a sign of mourning over the destruction of the Holy Temple and therefore the singing can be accompanied only by drums. Even though Gulaza’s current repertoire is enriched with other instruments, such as guitar, cello or bass, it still keeps the spirit of the Yemenite tradition. http://gulaza.webflow.io/

DANIELA SKORKA July 11, 20:00, Zámek Troja, Prague

The Italian aria „A Portrait of Venice“ was performed at the SUMMER FESTIVITIES OF EARLY MUSIC by the sopranist Daniela Skorka. She was accompanied by the French ensemble Les Folies françoises. http://www.letnislavnosti.cz/en/letni-slavnosti/cv/cv-2016-2/cv-daniela-skorka/

NIOGI July 12, 19:00, Old Town Square, Prague July 13, 19:00, Dr. E. Beneš Square, Liberec July 14, 17:30, Náměstí Svobody, Brno

Jazz quartet Niogi performed on three concerts at the festival Bohemia Jazz Fest. Guy Shkolnik and Omri Abramov are the creators of the combination of acoustic and electronic jazz.

http://www.bohemiajazzfest.cz/en/

ADAM BEN EZRA July 14, 20:30, Colours of Ostrava festival, Radegast Czech stage, Ostrava November 4, 19:30, Zámek Holešov, Holešov

Adam Ben Ezra performed in one of the most prestigious czech festivals and later he came back with his show in Holešov town. „If you do not know how to create a good sound with your fingers, then even the most expensive instrument or fancy equipment can't help you,“ says the 34-year-old multi- instrumentalist Adam Ben Ezra. He studied classical music and jazz which is the basis of his music. However, he also takes in rock, blues, Indian and Latino influences and recently even flamenco which is a very difficult discipline for a double- bass player. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjhZhI2Zthg

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016

VICTORIA HANNA July 16, 21:45, Colours of Ostrava festival, Vítkovice Gong stage, Ostrava July 17, 12:30, Colours of Ostrava festival, Meltingpot Global Stage July 21 – 24, Mlázovy u Klatov

Vocal artist Victoria Hanna performed art of rap based on ancient Kabbalistic texts at the festival Colours of Ostrava and then in Mlázovy u Klatov. http://www.victoriahanna.net/en/home

ZOHAR FRESCO July 17, 18:15, Colours of Ostrava festival, Vítkovice Gong stage, Ostrava

Zohar Fresco combines contemporary jazz with calm power of the ancient drum from the Biblical times. Zohar Fresco's passion for playing a frame drum knows no limits and boundaries. He draws his inspiration from musicians originated in Asia, Mediterranean as well as from collaborations with musicians from various cultures in search of new fingering technique and new language for this Biblical instrument, which he has managed to bring back to the center of attention. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ch477Z9jMcU

URIEL HERMAN QUARTET July 25, 17:30, Náměsť nad Oslavou

The festival Folk Holidays was enriched by the performance of Uriel Herman Quartet. The 28-year-old pianist and singer performed his melodic compositions characterized by the influences of the Middle East. http://www.urielherman.com/

AVISHAI COHEN TRIO August 6, 20:00, South Bohemian Jazz Festival / Jihočeský jazzový festival

Avishai Cohen, an artist adored by the Czech audience, performed in the Piarist Square in the center of České Budějovice. The renowned bassist gave his only concert in the Czech Republic in 2016 accompanied by Omri Mor (piano), and Daniel Dor (drums). http://www.sbjf.cz/en/

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016

SHTUBY August 10, 22:30, Ozora festival after party, Cross Club, Prague August 12, 20:00, Šafaříkovy sady, Pilsner festival Vivid Street, Pilsen August 16, 21:30, Nákladové nádraží Žižkov, Prague

An avant-garde project with the elements of funk, jazz, and groove mixed with electronic music took place in Prague, Pilsen and then in Prague again.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9bBw2- b6UE&index=2&list=PLcjBRXQIbLx3ZBbkuq9mmcM6YSfcat7qK

LA GITANA September 14, Jiná káva, Beroun September 15, Café v lese, Prague

Liron Meyuhas – a percussionist, master of a unique instrument known as the Hang or Hang Drum, singer, and composer – is involved in many musical projects all over the world. Within the last decade, Liron has visited North and West Africa, the Mediterranean and Middle East, and all of these places are reflected in her music. http://lironmeyuhas.com/

RED AXES September 24, Futurum, Prague

The Prague club Futurum introduced Dori Sadovnik’s and Niv Arzi’s project RED AXES. This duo from Tel Aviv is becoming popular in the European music scene where it appeals mainly to the fans of post-punk and electro music.

https://www.residentadvisor.net/dj/redaxes/dates

PILSEN BUSKING FEST: SHTUBY, DANI DORCHIN, DJ TORI BABA September 28 – October 1, Pilsen

Several Israeli artists performed at the Pilsen Busking Fest. Apart from Shtuby, the Pilsen audience saw the performances of Dani Dorchin and DJ Tori Baba. http://en.buskingfest.cz/

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INBAR FRIDMAN QUARTET (CZ/ISRAEL) Tour: September 30, 2016 - October 8, 2016 September 30, 2016, MANDAVA JAZZ FESTIVAL (D) October 1, ČESKÁ LÍPA, U bílýho černocha October 2, PRAHA, Jazz club Reduta October 3, ČESKÁ TŘEBOVÁ, Malý sál October 4, BRNO, Stará pekárna October 5, ROŽNOV POD RADHOŠTĚM October 6, VYŠKOV, Besední dům October 7, ZLÍN, Setkání kytaristů October 8, KYJOV, Jazz club

Jazz guitarist, Inbar Fridman, who used to play with the legendary drummer Billy Cobham, performed at nine different venues during her Czech tour. http://www.inbarmusic.com/

SALEEM ASHKAR October 3, Beethoven Residency, Convent of Saint Agnes, Prague December 12, Beethoven Residency, Convent of Saint Agnes, Prague

During four concert evenings, Israeli-Palestinian pianist Saleem Ashkar performed the cornerstone of Beethoven’s piano sonatas. For the concert series, Ashkar personally chose 17 piano sonatas by Ludwig van Beethoven.

http://www.saleemashkar.com/

KAMMA KAMILA: GATHERING OF DRUMMERS October 14, Smržovka, Parkhotel October 15, Svitavy, Fabrika October 16, Brno, Musilka October 17, Trutnov, Uffo October 18, Čáslav, Dusíkovo divadlo October 19, Nový Bor, Divadlo October 20, Děčín, Divadlo October 21, Dobříš, DK October 23, Praha, Lucerna MB October 25, Přerov, Dlažka October 26, Hodonín, Dům Kultury October 27, Rožnov p. R., TKA October 30, Vrchlabí, Kulturní dům Střelnice

This year, Kamma Kamila performed at festival „Gathering of Drummers“ in fourteen Czech cities. http://sletbubeniku.cz/?lang=en

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TATRAN November 5, 20:00, Anděl, Plzeň November 7, 20:00, Modrý Trpaslík, Česká Třebová November 9, 20:00, Cross Club, Prague

Tatran, an electronic instrumental trio influenced by a number of genres ranging from jazz, classical music, through rock, electro, and punk, performed in the Cross Club in Prague and in Česká Třebová. http://www.tatranmusic.com/about.php

OMER AVITAL QUINTET November 7, 19:30, Divadlo u hasičů, Římská 45, Prague

Jazz bassist, composer, and band-master who also plays the oud, is regarded as a pioneer of jazz combined with countless elements of world music, performed for the Czech audience in November.

http://omeravital.com/

ECHO & TITO November 10, 20:00, Cross Club, Prague November 11, 20:00, Anděl, Plzeň November 12, 20:00, Velbloud, České Budějovice

A duo of music producers creating together a mad mix of ethnic beat with electronic bass background, a bit of dubstep and hip hop performed in three Czech cities. https://echotito.bandcamp.com/

ASAF AVIDAN November 18, 20:30, MeetFactory, Prague

Asaf Avidan returned to Prague’s concert venues. Playing his guitar, he passes moments of pure emotions on to the audience through his distinctive voice. Despite his international success with the single „Reckoning Song / One Day“, he does not forget his main identity as a simple songwriter. http://www.meetfactory.cz/en/program/detail/asaf-avidan-il

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ENSEMBLE MOSCHELES AND ISRAELI MUSIC INSTITUTE November 27, 16:00, JAMU (Janáček Academy of Music and Performing Arts) in Brno hall, Brno November 28, 18:30, elementary school V.Kaprálové, Brno

The conductor Barak Tal came to Brno to personally introduce Yuval Avni, Ayal Adler and Uri Brenner. Apart from JAMU, the audience also had the opportunity to attend a concert dedicated to the works of Jewish composers living both in the diaspora and modern Israel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4rhJTFeTFA8

GADI STERN November 30, 19:30, Nuselská Radnice, Táborská 30, Prague 4

Czech audience had the opportunity to listen to Gadi Stern‘s music at the International festival of jazz piano in Prague. Stern has already performed in the Czech Republic before.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUQCrglKYBE

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016 CINEMA

STORIES OF CZECH AND SLOVAK JEWS LIVING IN ISRAEL January 24, 20.00, Cinema Ponrepo, Prague

The screening of these testimonies took place for the first time in the Cinema Ponrepo in connection to the International Holocaust Rememberance Day.

http://nfa.cz/cz/kino-ponrepo/program/

SON OF SAUL February 2, 18:15, Lucerna Cinema, Prague

The Golden Globe winner for Best Foreign Language Film, winner of Grand Jury Prize in Cannes and Oscar nominee „Son of Saul“ had its premiere in the Czech Republic.

https://www.facebook.com/events/814247192035743/

ONE WORLD FESTIVAL (TRUTH, NOTHING BUT..., HOTLINE) March 10, 20:00, Ponrepo, Prague, March 10, 18:00, MS Světozor, Prague

Two Israeli movies were shown at the „One World festival“. The documentary movie “Truth, Nothing But” focuses on the current situation of unregistered immigrants in Israel. The second movie, „Hotline”, contributes to the debate about the fine line between documentary film making and journalism. http://www.oneworld.cz/2016/films-a-z/30257-truth-nothing-but

A TALE OF LOVE AND DARKNESS March 19, 18:30, March 20, 16:00, FEBIOFEST, Cinestar Prague Anděl

The Czech viewer was able to compare the movie with the original novel that was published in the Czech Republic in 2009 by Paseka publishing house. http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1135989/?ref_=nv_sr_1

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INTO THE NORTH March 22, 18:00, OVK ŽMP, tř. Kpt. Jaroše 3, Brno

Natascha Dudinski’s documentary film presents the story of a group of Czech Jewish children who left Prague for Denmark in October 1939.

https://vimeo.com/145784971

DEMON March 22, 19:30, March 23, 17: 00, March 24, 22:00, FEBIOFEST, Cinestar Prague Anděl

The last work of the recently tragically deceased Polish director Marcin Wrona were to be seen at the Cinestar cinema. Israeli actor Itay Tiran attended the ceremonial Prague premiere. http://www.imdb.com/title/tt4935158/?ref_=nm_flmg_dr_1

ANIFILM May 3 - 8, Třeboň

Two short movies by the graduates of the Bezalel Academy in Jerusalem were screened. The movies „Innerviews“ of Chen Winner and „Mirrors“ by Yali Herbet and Lee Dror. http://www.anifilm.cz/cs/

KARLOVY VARY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL: ASAF POLONSKY, MICHAL VINIK, ELITE ZEXER, AMOS GITAI July 1 – 9, Karlovy Vary International Film Festival

51st Karlovy Vary International Film Festival presented 4 Israeli films Asaf Polonsky’s „One Week and Day“. Michal Vinik’s movie „Barash“ and Elite Zexer’s „Sand Storm“. Visitors of the festival also had the opportunity to see a movie about the murder of Itzhak Rabin called „Rabin, the Last Day“ directed by Amos Gitai. http://www.kviff.com/en/homepage

BARASH August 8, 21:00, Containall, Cihelná 4, Prague 1 / Mezipatra

In August, we had an opportunity to attend the outdoor screening of Michal Vinik’s movie „Barash“ in the culture center Containall. http://www.imdb.com/title/tt5022872/

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ORIENTED August 9, 19:00, Pride House: Langhans – „People in Need Center“, Prague

The documentary „Oriented“ is focused on three young gay living in the progressive city of Tel Aviv, and their struggle of complicated national and sexual identity.

http://www.orientedfilm.com/

MAKE HUMMUS NOT WAR October 22, 16:30, National Library of Technology, Prague

Trevor Graham’s film „Make Hummus Not War“. The movie focuses on the question whether the regional love of hummus could be the recipe for peace in the Middle East. http://lsff.cz/?lang=en

ADA USHPIZ: VITA ACTIVA - THE SPIRIT OF HANNA ARENDT October 25, October 30, 2016, International Documentary Film Festival, Jihlava

An Israeli film directed by Ada Ushpiz, „Vita Activa – The Spirit of Hanna Arendt“, was screened at the Jihlava International Documentary Film Festival. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n548c3MWw9c

FOOTNOTE – November 7, 18:00, University cinema Scala, Brno

Days of Israel at Masaryk University in Brno presented the movie „Footnote“ by Joseph Cedar.

https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/footnote/

MUNICH ’72 AND BEYOND: STEPHEN CRISMAN November 9, 19:00, Maisel synagogue, Prague

Documentary film „Munich ’72“ and Beyond describes the massacre that happened in Munich during the Olympic Games in 1972 when terrorists captured and murdered eleven Israeli athletes. http://munichmemorial.org/

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016 THEATRE

ULYSSES ON BOTTLES February 29, 7 pm, City Theatre, Zlín

Ulysses on Bottles is a theatre play reflecting on humanity in Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The play triggered a vivid debate in Israel and the audience had a unique chance to form an opinion for themselves at a premiere in Zlín, at the presence of its author Gilad Evron. https://www.divadlozlin.cz/cs/program/prehled-inscenaci/dilna/odyseus-na-petlahvich.html

ARCHITECTURE

BETWEEN UTOPIA AND POLITICS? ISRAELI ARCHITECTURE IN THE 20TH CENTURY June 30, 19:00, Langhans, Prague

Lecture from the cycle “Ulpan presents…” focused on modern Israeli architecture, and several specific places (for example Tel Aviv and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem).

http://ulpan.cz/data/uploads/ulpan_uvadi/u_u_2016/jakubf2izrael logo.pdf

ARCHITECTURE WEEK September 26 - October 9, Mánes, Prague

Israel's architecture was represented by professor Michael Turner, UNESCO Chairholder in Urban Design and Conservation Studies and head of the Research and Innovation Authority at the Bezalel, Academy of Arts and Design, Jerusalem and by Chief Architect at Jerusalem Municipality Ofer Manor. Both Israeli guests gave lectures on conference on transportation infrastructure and security ORGANIC CITY – Roads to smarter cities. http://www.architectureweek.cz/

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016 ART

RONA STERN: THE PORTENT OF LIGHT April 14, 19:00 Meet Factory, Prague

Within the event Open studio, held in the area of Meet factory, an Israeli artist Rona Stern presented her work in a group exhibition called The Portent of Light. http://www.meetfactory.cz/cs/program/rezidency/rezidency-program/rona-stern

MAAYAN SHELEFF July 1, 2016, 19:00, National Library of Technology; July 7, 2016, 19.00,Tranzitdisplay, Prague

Discussion and screening with Israeli curator and artist Maayan Sheleff took place in the National Library of Technology and in the gallery Tranzitdisplay at the beginning of July.

https://www.facebook.com/events/783180271781428/

ODELIA LEUCHTER September 15 – November 16, Stanislav Libenský Award, International glassmaking exhibition, DOX Center for Contemporary Art, Prague

An artifact created by Odelia Leuchter, a graduate from Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design, was exhibited at the 8th international glass exhibition Stanislav Libenský Award. http://www.dox.cz/cs/vystavy/stanislav-libensky-award-2016

GEFFEN REFAELI September 26 – 27, JEDNA DVA TŘI gallery, Prague September 24 – 28, festival of illustration art LUSTR, Prague

The visual artist Geffen Refaeli presented her current series “light box” which was partly created during her residential stay in Prague on the premises of Petrohradská kolektiv residence.

http://www.pagefive.com/lustr/

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016

DEDE AND NITZAN MINTZ October 6, Czech Center Prague – lecture about the Israeli street art and the work October 22, Jedna Dva Tři Gallery, Prague – the final exhibition Two large paintings „Ambitions“ and „Objects“ in the walls of the Prague‘s buildings (Nakladatelství Argo (Milíčova 13, Praha 3) and Divadlo Ponec (Husitská 24a/899, Praha 3)

Through his projects, Dede reacts not only to the change of a city and urbanism, but also to societal and personal topics. His works are always site-specific, and express the relationship between a thought which stands at their inception, and a given location, material, and technique which Dede uses. Along with Nitzan Mintz, a poet and artist whose poems have personal and activist elements, they represent an important creative duo. http://www.imdede.com/ http://www.nitzanmintz.com/

A CZECH-ISRAELI COLLOQUIUM: "IS THERE A JEWISH ART?" October 7, Academic Conference Center, Prague

Israeli and Czech professors, curators, and artists provided answers to Jewish art questions at the Czech-Israeli colloquium.

http://www.udu.cas.cz/en/archive/call-for-papers-is-there-a-jewish-art/

CARLA RATHAUS October 26, October 31, 2016, Industrial Palace, Prague

The international competition of Master theses, Diploma Selection was again part of the Designblok 2016. The works of all competitors were exhibited in the Openstudio in the Industrial Palace in Prague. http://www.designblok.cz/cz/zpravy/diploma-selection-na-designbloku-2016

DESIGNSUPERMARKET December 8-11, Kafka's house, Prague December 10, 18:45, Lecture "Israeli jewel" - Sharon Keren, Nod, Prague

Eight Israeli jewelers and graduates of Shenkar College led by artist Sharon Keren were presented within the „designSUPERMARKET“, held at Kafka’s house,

http://www.designsupermarket.cz/en/

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016 LITERATURE

ARI SHAVIT: MY PROMISED LAND: THE TRIUMPH AND TRAGEDY OF ISRAEL published in January, HOST,translation Radim Klenker

An authorative and deeply personal narrative history of the State of Israel, by one of the most influential journalists writing about the Middle East today. http://nakladatelstvi.hostbrno.cz/nakladatelstvi/ostatni/zeme-zaslibena- 1045

EUROPEAN LITERATURE NIGHTS 2016 May 11, Karlin Studios, Prague 8

Israeli literature was represented by Etgar Keret and his book Seven good years which was read by Czech actor Ondřej Volejník. Besides Prague, The Literature Night took place in 49 other cities ( Brno, Olomouc, Pisek, Jicin, Mladá Boleslav, Červený Kostelec, Pisek, Humpolec, Opočno and others.) http://prague.czechcentres.cz/program/detail-akce/noc-literatury-20163/

BOOK WORLD PRAGUE 2016 May 12 - 15, Prague Exhibition Grounds – Holešovice

Booth with Israeli literature at the 22nd Book World Festival was presenting current and famous pieces and gave a great opportunity to play various educational games about Israel.

http://sk2016.svetknihy.cz/en/

SAYED KASHUA: DANCING ARABS published in May 10. 2016, Pistorius & Olšanská Publishing company

An autobiographical story born out of the tensions between Israeli Jews and Arabs is a debut novel by twenty-eight-year-old Arab- Israeli author.The brilliant translation by Magdalena Křížová draws a fullpicture of the disillusion of the third generation of Israeli Arabs with biting humor.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TW0Jjf3RrME

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016

DROR MISHANI – THE MISSING FILE, ARGO, TRANSLATION: JINDŘICH VACEK

Argo published the new detective novel translated by Jindřich Vacek. The novel received excellent rankings reviews among criminal novels and several prestigious awards. https://d-a-mishani.com/the-missing-file/

LIZZIE DORON – WHO THE FUCK IS KAFKA? published in October 24, Garamond, translation from German: Ruth Jochanan Weiniger

The author Lizzie Doron came to Prague to introduce the novel in the beginning of November and the Embassy organised a special event at the residence of the ambassador.

https://en.qantara.de/content/lizzie-dorons-book-who-the- fuck-is-kafka-only-as-enemies-did-we-become-friends

YISHAI SARID – LIMASSOL, PRÁH PUBLISHING

Limassol, a thriller featuring an agent of the Israeli secret service written by Yishai Sarid translated by Lenka Bukovská was published by the Práh Publishing, has won many awards, the most significant of which is the French Le Grand Prix Littérature Policière. http://www.prah.cz/knihy/limassol-sarid-jisaj-379

SETH M. SIEGEL – LET THERE BE WATER published in December 6, Lecture, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague December 7, Autography, Neoluxor, Prague

The publishing house ALIGIER prepared the launch of the book „Let There Be Water“ by Seth M. Siegel. Durring his visit to Prague, the author introduced the methods and procedures thanks to which Israel has become number one in the field of water management and technologies. The embassy organised a special event at the residence of the ambassador.

http://www.sethmsiegel.com/book/

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016 OTHER

DAYS OF JERUSALEM IN PRAGUE May 25 - 29, Prague – Stromovka

From 25th to 29th May in Prague Stromovka there was an opportunity to meet Jerusalem musicians of various background and religion. The main star was a multi- talented producer, singer and rapper Adi Ulmansky. A significant attraction was the group Echo & Tito performing with an energetic duo Malox, young band Beta Zinq and Muhammad Mughrabi rapper or group of energetic OSOG. Besides music performances there were other delights to enjoy such as the Jerusalem culinary arts chefs, stalls with Jerusalem products, work of young designers and representatives of Jerusalem skate community. The festival also offered movie screenings, discussions and lectures and for the first time also program for children. http://daysofjerusalem.com/cs

AT THE EDGE: THE "WHAT-NOW" OF HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE February 22, Jewish Museum, Prague

What is the role of Holocaust memorials and authentic historic sites in this process, most importantly that of Auschwitz, a place most frequently associated with the Holocaust? How should we commemorate Holocaust in the future? The Israeli historian Florence Isenberg attempted to answer these questions. http://www.jewishmuseum.cz/en/program-and- education/events/803/

ULPAN INTRODUCES... ISRAELI SEAS: AT THE BEACH IN THE PROMISED LAND February 26, Langhans, Prague

Israeli psychologist based in Prague Lior Behar talked about the specifics of life by the sea. https://www.facebook.com/events/1119743194703932/

ISRAEL - HIGHWAY OF MIGRATING BIRDS March 17, National Museum, Prague

Lecture by Martin Smrček from ZOO focused on migrating birds in Israel, which is considered - thanks to its location on the intersection of tree continents - a true ornithological paradise. http://www.nm.cz/Hlavni-strana/Akce-PM/Izrael-migracni-dalnice-ptaku.html

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016

WESTERN WALL - HISTORY AND PRESENCE April 12, Langhans Centre People in Need, Prague

Lecture by Tereza Gafna Váňová from Lauder school organized by the Prague Ulpan took place at the Centre of „People in Need“.

http://ulpan.cz/data/uploads/ulpan_uvadi/u_u_2016/plakat-gafna-flink.pdf

BUDĚJOVICKÝ MAJÁLES May 23 - 27, České Budějovice

Student Majales festival in České Budějovice presented several Israeli artists. Besides singer and rapper Adi Ulmansky, OSOG rock band with elements of folk, visitors of the festival could hear Echo&Tito. http://budejovickymajales.cz/

13TH SHAMAYIM JEWISH CULTURE FESTIVAL August 1 - 6, Jewish Quarter, Rear synagogue, Třebíč

The annual Jewish Culture Festival SHAMAYIM brought opportunities to listen to Klezmer musicians, Hasidic songs and tasting of both traditional and modern Israeli cuisine.

https://www.facebook.com/samajimtrebic/

THE DAYS OF JEWISH CULTURE IN OLOMOUC

September 21, Liza Lavie’s discussion: Hours of Fanny Neuda’s Devotion, Mozarteum, September 23, , Meeting with Hugo Marom, Mozarteum

In September in Olomouc, visitors of the festival had the opportunity to see four movies about Israel.

September 21, To See if I’m Smiling September 22, Living for Tomorrow September 22, Children of the Sun

http://www.olmuart.cz/dzko/#home

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016

EREC ACHERET: THE LAND OF ADVENTURE, SAAR RAT - WITH ATV THROUGH ISRAEL December 13, 19:00, Langhans – „People in Need Center“, Prague

The second lecture by Erec Acheret series of Prague's Ulpan presented Israel from the view of an ATV - All-Terrain Vehicle. The speaker Saar Rat shared with audience his experience from Israeli offroad. http://ulpan.cz/index.php?id=erec-acheret

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ISRAELI CULTURE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2016

Tereza Regnerová Head of Cultural Affairs

Embassy of Israel Badeniho 2 170 06 Prague 7 Czech Republic

Tel. +420 233 097 516 Email: [email protected] Web: http://embassies.gov.il/praha https://www.facebook.com/IsraelinCzechRepublic

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