We Met at Grossingers

SPECIAL OPENING NIGHT EVENT

An immersive journey through the Jewish Catskills—once known as the Borscht Belt—reviving the iconic resort that inspired Dirty Dancing and defined an era of Jewish American life. Throughout decades of prejudice stifling the integration of Jewish immigrants in America, the Borscht Belt in the Catskills provided an oasis of belonging, and Grossinger’s Resort and Hotel was the crown jewel. The real-life inspiration for the setting of the 1987 classic film Dirty Dancing, Grossinger’s provided both a physical and mental getaway where Jews—and others from marginalized communities—needing a break from NYC could relax. The resort’s growing reputation attracted a wide variety of comedians, athletes, and political figures, including Mel Brooks, Jerry Seinfeld, Jackie Robinson and Eleanor Roosevelt. Award-winning filmmaker Paula Eiselt resurrects this vanished world with an immersive warmth, providing a timely reminder of the historic richness of Jewish culture and its immeasurable contributions to American life.

WHY WE LIKE THIS FILM: They say “nostalgia ain’t what it used to be,” but this charming documentary is proving otherwise. A favorite on the Jewish Film Festival circuit this year, this feel-good film offers an inviting look into the legendary Catskills resort that helped shape Jewish-American culture and hospitality. At its center is the story of three generations of visionary Jewish women, led by the iconic Jennie Grossinger, who created a welcoming haven for those excluded from elite vacation spots. Drawing a celebrated mix of comedians, athletes, entertainers, and public figures, Grossinger’s grew into a bright symbol of American Jewish culture. Get ready to leave the opening film of this year’s festival with a smile on your face!

Community partners:

Showtimes

In-Person

Nov 12

7:00 PM — Evans Performance Center at Shalom Austin

Nov 13

11:30 AM — Evans Performance Center at Shalom Austin

Need help with ticketing? Email boxoffice@AustinJFF.org with your name, email address, and phone number. We can process ticketing over the phone. Please don’t wait until the last minute!