The Big Encore

Following an Evening with Van Jones and Jonah Platt

Join us as we host CNN’s Van Jones and actor, producer, and writer Jonah Platt for a candid conversation about building stronger alliances and identifying impactful ways for the Jewish community and its allies to support one another amid rising division, antisemitism, and hate.

Van Jones is a CNN host, Emmy Award-winning producer, bestselling author, and renowned social entrepreneur. He has spent his career bringing people together across differences to advance meaningful change in areas including clean energy, criminal justice reform, and civic engagement.

Jonah Platt is a leading voice on Jewish identity, culture, and current events. Known for his work on Broadway’s Wicked and the Oscar-nominated film Being the Ricardos, he also hosts the podcast Being Jewish with Jonah Platt.

Stay for the encore. When the program ends, join YLD for our signature Campaign celebration. At The Big Encore, step into an after-hours world of live jazz, specialty cocktails & mocktails, and late-night bites.

You will not want to miss this special evening of conversation, connection, and community.

Thursday, November 5
Program 7:30 – 9 pm
Big Encore 9 – 11 pm
B’nai Jeshurun Congregation
27501 Fairmount Blvd, Pepper Pike

Specialty cocktails & mocktails and late-night bites will be served
(kosher dietary laws observed)

Special YLD ticket pricing:
$18 per person

*An $18 ticket purchase is required for event admission, along with a minimum $18 donation to the 2027 Campaign for Jewish Needs. Your gift helps address the growing needs of our local and global community — from caring for the most vulnerable to combating hate, and so much more. Payment is not due until December 31, 2027. Thank you in advance for your generosity.
Program tickets are not tax deductible. Federation policy follows current IRS guidance and does not permit payment of a DAF grant when there is a non-deductible component associated with the grant.

Handicap parking and full accessibility are available on site.

Advance registration is required for this event; walk-ins will not be permitted.
Space is limited, and registration will close Tuesday, November 3.

Thanks to the support of Brunswick Companies, an increased gift to this year’s Campaign for Jewish Needs made in connection with this event will be matched dollar-for-dollar. Plus, if you increase your gift by 10% or more and make it before November 1, the increased portion of your gift will be doubled through the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation’s generous “Mandel Match.”