FILMS
As a successor in a historied Ashkenazi rabbinic dynasty, Amichai Lau-Lavie’s life was paved with expectations from birth. However, conflicted by the rules of his Orthodox Jewish upbringing and a desire to live his life truthfully and authentically, Amichai chose to forge his own path and break new ground in the process. A Tribeca Best Documentary nominee, Sabbath Queen follows Amichai’s journey through two decades of his life as he challenges the customs of the Orthodox Jewish faith and navigates his position as a trailblazing spiritual leader. From establishing a first of its kind inclusive congregation, Lab/Shul, to developing his drag queen persona and being a queer father, this film explores every aspect of Amichai’s life with sincerity and intimacy. Through archival material, candid interviews, and thought-provoking commentary, Sabbath Queen explores the complex struggle between tradition and modernity, and one man’s lifelong attempt to find a bridge between them.
Official Selection: Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, Miami Jewish Film Festival
Q&A Panelists
The film screening will be followed by a Q&A with director Sandi DuBowski and special guest Kohenet Keshira haLev Fife.
Sandi DuBowski
Director – Sabbath Queen
Sandi DuBowski is an award-winning director and producer known for his impactful documentaries, including Trembling Before G-d, which explores LGBTQ Jewish identities and has influenced discussions on faith and sexuality. His films have screened at major festivals such as Sundance and Berlin, and he has been recognized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for his contributions to the documentary field. As Co-Founder of The Creative Resistance, DuBowski continues to work on political and social justice campaigns, creating award-winning media that drives change.
Keshira haLev Fife
Special Guest – Sabbath Queen
Keshira haLev Fife (she/they) is a Kohenet (Hebrew Priestess) and a bi-racial, queer Jewish person who delights in serving as davennatrix (shlichat tzibbur), lifespiral ceremony/ritual creatrix, consultant, facilitator, teacher, liturgist, and songstress. She serves as Founding Kohenet of Kesher Pittsburgh and Core Faculty Member with the Institute for Jewish Spirituality, and also enjoys working with Beloved, The Jewish Studio Project, Kirva, the Avodah Institute for Social Change, and the Jewish Learning Collaborative, among other national Jewish organizations. Though both the lands of the Osage & Haudenosaunee people (aka Pittsburgh, PA) and the Gadigal people (Sydney, AUS) feel like home, Keshira and her beloved have been in an extended period of travel since January 2023.