Atlanta, GA, October 22, 2025
News Summary
The Atlanta Jewish Film Festival (AJFF) is marking its 25th anniversary with a Gala Concert featuring community choirs and notable vocalists. Scheduled for October 2025, the event aims to strengthen community connections through music and film. With the appointment of James Anderson as the festival’s first Black president, AJFF is set to enhance its outreach initiatives, including educational programs supported by a significant donation. This concert is part of a larger celebration that honors the Jewish film industry’s contributions to culture.
Atlanta, Georgia – The Atlanta Jewish Film Festival (AJFF) is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a special Gala Concert scheduled for October 20, 2025. The event will showcase iconic Jewish film music and will feature performances from several community choirs, aiming to foster community unity and cultural expression through music and film.
The Gala Concert will include choirs from The Temple and Ebenezer Baptist Church, along with AJFF featured vocalists Brad Raymond, Deb Bowman, and Leigh Ellen Jones. The concert will be conducted by Maestro Stuart Chafetz, a specialist in film scores, adding to the evening’s engaging atmosphere. The event will be hosted by Ben Mankiewicz, a well-known host for Turner Classic Movies (TCM).
Tickets for the concert can be purchased online, and with a venue capacity of 1,800, organizers expect the event to sell out quickly. This concert is part of a broader 25th-anniversary celebration during which the AJFF will also announce the winners of the 2025 Jury Awards.
AJFF’s Mission and Community Impact
The AJFF’s mission is to bridge communities through the power of film. Emphasizing storytelling, the festival seeks to celebrate creativity and promote cultural understanding among diverse audiences. This year, the festival is particularly focused on its Kenny Blank Vision Initiative, which aims to expand AJFF’s impact with year-round programming and educational outreach. The initiative received a significant boost with a $250,000 contribution from The Coca-Cola Company as part of a larger $2.5 million fundraising effort.
As the festival prepares for its 25th anniversary, it also marks a historic moment by appointing James Anderson as the new president of AJFF, making him the festival’s first Black president. His leadership is expected to bring fresh perspectives and enhance the festival’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.
Festival Highlights and Upcoming Events
The festival holds its last in-theater movies on March 6, 2025, followed by virtual streaming options available from March 7 to March 16 for those wishing to participate remotely. The combination of in-person and virtual events aims to maximize audience reach while maintaining the rich tradition of Jewish film presentation.
Overall, the AJFF’s 25th anniversary celebrations, including the upcoming Gala Concert, signify a milestone in honoring the contributions of Jewish film and promoting an artistic dialogue within the community.
Summary of Key Features
- Event: Atlanta Jewish Film Festival 25th Anniversary Gala Concert
- Date: October 20, 2025
- Performance Highlights: Community choirs, AJFF vocalists
- Conductor: Maestro Stuart Chafetz
- Host: Ben Mankiewicz
- Venue Capacity: 1,800
- New Festival President: James Anderson
- Coca-Cola Contribution: $250,000 to Kenny Blank Vision Initiative
- Last In-theater Movies: March 6, 2025
- Streaming Dates: March 7 to March 16, 2025
FAQ
What is the date of the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival 25th Anniversary Gala Concert?
The Gala Concert is scheduled to take place on October 20, 2025.
What is the capacity of the venue for the Gala Concert?
The venue has a capacity of 1,800.
Who will host the Gala Concert?
The event will be hosted by Ben Mankiewicz.
What significant initiative has Coca-Cola supported for AJFF?
Coca-Cola announced a $250,000 contribution to AJFF’s $2.5 million Kenny Blank Vision Initiative.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Atlanta Jewish Film Festival Concludes with Brazilian Dramedy
Atlanta Prepares for 25th Anniversary of Jewish Film Festival
Tragic Loss in Atlanta: Tyler Perry Studios President Steve Mensch Dies
Additional Resources
- Atlanta Jewish Film Festival Highlights
- Wikipedia: Atlanta Jewish Film Festival
- AJFF Gala Concert with ASO
- Google Search: Atlanta Jewish Film Festival
- AJFF Closes Out Its 25th Annual Season
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
