The United States vs Billie Holiday / Preview Screening + Lecture and Performance
A Unique Musical Homage to Jazz Legend Billie Holiday, moderated by pianist Yael Keret
Singer Tom Cohen, jazz saxophonist Eyal Hai and pianist Yael Keret perform Billie Holiday’s beloved songs, accompanied by a discussion of her revolutionary musical personality, that left a lasting mark on Jazz, Pop music and generations of successive musicians. Followed by a preview screening of the Academy Award-nominated, award-winning movie The United States vs Billie Holiday, winner of Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Motion Picture Drama, directed by award-winning Lee Daniels (his movie Precious won three Academy Awards).
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Director: Lee Daniels
Stars: Andra Day, Leslie Jordan, Natasha Lyonne
USA 2020 | 94 minutes | English (Hebrew subtitles)
Her voice is unmistakable. This amazing voice tried to say something to the audiences that packed the halls where she performed, and to the whole world. The legendary Billie Holiday, one of the greatest Jazz singers of all generations, spent most of her career adored by countless admirers throughout the world. While she continued to make her voice heard, Federal agents targeted her in a secret operation aimed at stopping her from performing the controversial song “Strange Fruit,” which was a harbinger of the modern Civil Liberties Union. The whole world followed the trial which saw her sentenced to jail but come out stronger. In a time when Black people were forbidden from travelling up an elevator or using public toilets, her enormous audience served as her strength. The Government feared this voice and did its utmost to stop it.
“A star is born, Andra Day is electrifying! – Screen International
“Andra Day scorches the screen” – The Hollywood Reporter
“Hulu’s best original film yet” – Popcorn and Tequila
“Andra Day breathes a new life into Billie Holiday” – Time Out
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Entrance is through the Herta and Paul Amir Building only.