Our Fortunate Eyes

This month the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Cape Cod (JFCC), presented the documentary “Life in Stills” at Newport Public Library (hosted by Touro Synagogue), Falmouth Jewish Congregation and the Dwares JCC.

The three events generated nearly two hundred community members in attendance. Ben Peter, grandson of the late Rudi Weissenstein, introduced the film at each location and answered questions after each screening. Some attendees asked about the making of the documentary while others focused on questions about Miriam Weissenstein, Rudi’s wife and Ben’s grandmother.  “She and I had a very special relationship,” said Peter.

In the film, Miriam’s feisty nature comes through loud and clear; at 96 years old, she tells it like it is. Viewers laughed at her one-liners—barbs usually directed toward Ben—and reacted emotionally when the story’s plot revealed family misfortunes. But the universal take-home message was one of familial bonds, especially the grandparent/grandchild relationship.

“What I found most moving was the way audience members, young and old, connected to the story,” said Erin Moseley, Director of Arts & Culture at the Alliance. “I spoke with several individuals at each location who through tears told me stories of their own relationship with a beloved grandparent or grandchild.”

Terry Smily, JFCC President, was particularly pleased with the program in Falmouth and the collaboration with the Alliance “I have nothing but great things to say. Thanks to the Alliance for bringing ‘Life in Stills’ back to New England, and thank you to Ben for having such an inspirational story.”

In addition, the exhibit “Your Fortunate Eyes–Photographs by Rudy Weissenstein” is on display at gallery(401) at the Dwares JCC through February 28. These images showcase a mere sample of Weissenstein’s one million photographs and the exhibit is curated by Ben Peter, Michal Amran and Andreas Grau-Fuchs, Pri-Or PhotoHouse Tel Aviv.

Free programs such as these are made possible by the generosity of donors to the Jewish Alliance who deeply believe that there should be community places, spaces and experiences that are accessible to everyone.

KARA MARZIALI is the Director of Communications at the Alliance.