“Dybbuk” Film Screening (Yiddish Book Center 2026: Between Two Worlds)

During 2026, Richmond Public Library will be hosting programs as part of Between Two Worlds: Exploring Jewish Culture and Religion Through Yiddish Literature, a partnership with the Yiddish Book Center.

This screening of Dybbuk (1937, 2hr 3mns) is part of our exploration of Yiddish language and culture. In Dybbuk, a young bride is possessed by the spirit of her dead husband’s dislocated soul. Based on the Yiddish theater’s most memorable play. Much of Yiddish cinema was rooted in the Yiddish theater, particularly in Poland and America, and Dybbuk was no exception. It was adapted from a renowned play by Sholom Ansky. The play was inspired by Ansky’s 1912-1917 expedition through the villages of the Ukrainian countryside, during which he collected nearly 1,800 Jewish stories, legends and bits of folklore. In a tragic twist of fate, Ansky, who died in 1920, did not live to see his play produced on stage or adapted for the screen. Dybbuk was directed by Michal Waszynski, an experienced filmmaker in the mainstream Polish cinema who had completed more than 25 features by the time he accepted this assignment. (via TCM.com)

Please note that participation in any Between Two Worlds programs is open to all. People wishing to learn more about Yiddish literature and culture are encouraged to register, regardless of your level of previous knowledge. Through reading high quality translations and participating in facilitated discussions, these stories and histories will be made available to as many people as possible. Participation in other Between Two Worlds programs encouraged, but not required.

The Yiddish Book Center’s Public Libraries Program brings Yiddish literature in translation to libraries nationwide, encouraging connections and sparking cross-cultural dialogue. This event is presented as part of the Yiddish Book Center’s Public Libraries Program, a partnership with the American Library Association. Made possible by the Lilly Endowment, Inc.

This will film will be presented in the Auditorium of the Main Library.