Mr Gaga film screening plus dance demonstration by choreographer Omer Backley-Astrachan

On the evening of Thursday 4 March, Emanuel Synagogue in Woollahra and Plus61J Media will co-host a screening of the documentary feature Mr Gaga, followed by a discussion with choreographer and researcher Omer Backley-Astrachan.

Mr Gaga focuses on Ohad Naharin, renowned choreographer and artistic director of the Batsheva Dance Company. Naharin is a pivotal figure in the world of dance and the film starts at a critical turning point in his personal life and introduces audiences to someone with great artistic integrity and an extraordinary vision. 

The film took eight years to film and has been globally acclaimed, with RogerEbert.com’s Sheila O’Malley describing it as “…an intense pleasure,” which is “…the next best thing to being there in the room.”

Following the screening of the film, Sydney-based choreographer and movement researcher Omer Backley-Astrachan will discuss his own journey of dancing in Israel, demonstrate and share his movement practice, and explain how Gaga became such a profound source of great inspiration to him.

Originally from Israel, Mr Backley-Astrachan has worked extensively with an array of choreographers and dance companies from around the world.

In 2018 he was appointed Course Coordinator at Sydney Dance Company’s Pre-Professional Year, where he guides and mentors the next generation of dance artists in Australia.

Where: Emanuel Synagogue, 7 Ocean St, Woollahra
When: Thursday 4 March, from 7pm-9pm
Cost: Emanuel Members $10; non-members $15

For bookings visit https://emanuelsynagoguesydney.shulcloud.com/event/mr-gaga

To view the film’s inspiring trailer visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6gd8xpFMsM

For more info contact Robert Klein at Emanuel Synagogue on 0410 439 347.

ENDS

About Emanuel Synagogue:  
Emanuel Synagogue was founded in 1938 as The Congregation of the Temple Emanuel, a progressive synagogue. It is regarded as one of Australia’s most inclusive and dynamic congregations, known for its commitment to social justice works (especially concerning refugees and the homeless), other matters of human rights as well as animal rights, and environmental action.