Muslims, Jews, and A New Song May 23, 2012

Building bridges of understanding with Dr. Tricia Gibbs (aka Sarah Isaias), Nafisa Haji and the Yuval Ron Trio

Had the tragic events of 9/11 not taken place, neither Tricia Hellman Gibbs nor Nafisa Haji would have written powerful and acclaimed novels exploring interfaith themes. On Thursday, May 23 @ 7pm, these Marin County-based Jewish and Muslim authors will be joined by the Yuval Ron Trio at the Osher Marin JCC, to celebrate two civilizations and explore the cultural, musical and spiritual ties that can bind us, if we inform ourselves.

Post-9/11, Dr. Tricia Hellman Gibbs questioned the value of religion and embarked on a ten-year journey exploring her Jewish roots, learning Arabic and studying Islam. Her celebrated novel, "A New Song", published under her Hebrew name Sarah Isaias, features both Jewish and Muslim characters on a dangerous quest for a poem they believe to be key to humanity's redemption.

Dr. Nafisa Haji, who formerly represented the International Association of Sufism as a board member of the Marin Interfaith Council, will speak about her second novel, "The Sweetness of Tears", a family saga spans decades while exploring Islam's history, the reach of evangelical Christianity, and the war in Iraq.

The Yuval Ron Trio will perform a blend of Jewish, Muslim and Christian music of the Middle East. The trio features Yuval Ron - oud, voice and artistic director; Husain Resan - vocals and violin; and Dror Sinai - percussion and voice

Gibbs and Haji agree that there is inestimable value to be gained from studying one's own faith as well as the faith of another. Dr. Gibbs will speak about her journey back to Judaism and love of Torah, her discoveries in studying Islam and the Quran, and read from A New Song. Readings and musical performances will be followed by a panel discussion. Tastings will be provided by JIMENA, Jews Indigenous to the Middle East and North Africa.
All are welcome, need not be a JCC member.

Official Website: http://www.marinjcc.org