Behind the lyrics
From the words of “I Got Rhythm” to the libretto of “Porgy and Bess,” Ira Gershwin’s lyrics are some of the most memorable of the 20th century. The JCC of San Francisco presents an exhibit of memorabilia collected by Gershwin and his wife, Leonore, that offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the lives of Ira and his brother and partner, the composer George Gershwin. The exhibit includes original sheet music covers, posters and personal photographs. On April 2, Ira Gershwin’s nephew Mike Strunsky will be on hand to tell family stories; gallery tour and refreshments provided.
April 1 through June 15 at JCC of San Francisco, 3200 California St., S.F. Opening reception 7 p.m. Monday, April 2. Free. www.jccsf.org
saturday/31
Gallery reception. For oil painter Deborah Miller’s exhibition “Cradle of Wet and Burning” exploring Kabbalah. At John F. Kennedy University’s Department of Arts and Consciousness Gallery, 2956 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley. 7 p.m. Free. www.jfku.edu.
ongoing
“An American Experience: Growing Up Jewish in America.” Exhibit displays heritage of residents and family members of the Reutlinger Community for Jewish Living. Through July 29. At the Jewish Heritage Museum, 4000 Camino Tassajara, Danville. www.rcjl.org.
“California Dreaming.” Multimedia exhibit exploring Jewish life in the Bay Area from Gold Rush to present. Through Oct. 16. “Do Not Destroy: Trees, Art, and Jewish Thought.” Tu B’Shevat–themed exhibit that explores tree design, purpose and Jewish thought. Through May 28. “Stanley Saitowitz: Judaica.” New perspectives from the S.F.-based architect. Through Oct. 16. At Contemporary Jewish Museum, 736 Mission St., S.F. www.thecjm.org.
“Dissolving Localities.” Multimedia exhibit by Israeli musician Emmanuel Witzthum connecting Berkeley to Jerusalem. Through July 3. At Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life, 2121 Allston Way, Berkeley. www.magnes.org.
“Interpreting the Interior.” Exhibit on Etgar Keret’s Israeli film “Jellyfish” and short story collections and graphic novels. Through April 29. At BJE Jewish Community Library, 1835 Ellis St., S.F. www.bjesf.org.
“King Solomon Tarot Cards.” Paintings by Israeli artist Orna Ben-Shoshan. Through April 1. At Peninsula JCC, 800 Foster City Blvd., Foster City. www.pjcc.org.