So much happens in our community every day that it can be hard to sift through all of the events. We’re highlighting a few upcoming events, in every corner of the Jewish Bay Area, to get you started. You can find many more in J.’s online calendar. If you have a community event you’d like to share, go to J.’s “submit a calendar event” page.
SAN FRANCISCO
Thursday | February 26
“I Left a Cult and Now I Want Back In” — Comedian Raye Schiller’s standup show about their queer identity and Orthodoxy, plus a Q&A. At Congregation Emanu-El, 2 Lake St. 7 p.m. $36, includes a drink.
Friday | February 27
Purim Shabbat — Congregation Sherith Israel celebration features Elton John singalong spiel, Shabbat service and 175th anniversary party with games, treats and libations. Come in costume. At 2266 California St., S.F. 6-7:15 p.m. Free.
NORTH BAY
Tuesday | March 3
Purim in the Circus — Chabad of Novato’s Purim celebration features the “Tricks to Happiness” circus show, Megillah reading, hamantaschen and kids’ activities. At 695 de Long Ave., Novato. 5 p.m. Adults $25, kids $18.
Tropical Purim — Chabad Jewish Center of Petaluma presents Hawaiian-themed celebration with mechanical surfboard, bubble show, poke bowls, snow cones, pina colada mocktails, Megillah reading illustrated by sand artist. At Hotel Petaluma, 205 Kentucky St., Petaluma. 5 p.m. Adults $15, children $10.
EAST BAY
Wednesday | February 25
“Philip Roth: Stung by Life” — Historian and author Steven Zipperstein discusses his biography of the influential author with professor Scott Saul in this year’s Diller Lecture. Reception and light refreshments before conversation. Presented by Berkeley’s Center for Jewish Studies. Co-sponsored by Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life. At Magnes, 2121 Allston Way, Berkeley. 5-6:30 p.m. Free.
Friday | February 27
“Purim Spiel: Pulse, Pulse, Glitch!” — Chochmat HaLev and performance troupe Well of Wills present a “divine dystopian comedy” reimagining of the Book of Esther. At 2215 Prince St., Berkeley. 8:30-10 p.m. Also Feb. 28 and March 1, 7:30-9 p.m. $39-$95.
PENINSULA/SOUTH BAY
Sunday | March 1
“Purim ETZtravaganza” — Congregation Etz Chayim’s family carnival features pony rides, carnival games and Shushan bakery. At 4161 Alma St., Palo Alto. 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Free.
Monday | March 2
“Etz Purim Spiel: Aladdin” — Congregation Etz Chayim’s sing-along spiel to Aladdin music with dinner, dance party, drinks, youth pop-up band, hamantaschen. At 4161 Alma St., Palo Alto. 6-9 p.m. Free.