Series: Pearls of Wisdom
Friday Matinee @ the J
In-Person Only: March 28
Special Event: Discounted $10 tickets for seniors age 65+. Coffee, tea, and noshes served. After the film, join Leslie Rubenstein of Endless Opportunities for an extended schmooze + more noshes.
Enter the enchanting world of groundbreaking artist Shari Lewis, whose boundless creativity and timeless joy have left an indelible mark on children’s entertainment with her beloved sock puppet companion, Lamb Chop. Hailing from a Jewish Bronx family, Lewis rose from playful beginnings in the 1950s thanks to her engaging children’s variety shows, leading to the debut of iconic Lamb Chop on “Captain Kangaroo.”
Over the course of her extraordinary career, she amassed an impressive collection of accolades, including 13 Emmys and a Peabody, and authored over 60 children’s books, becoming an adored star recognized for her many talents as a ventriloquist, singer, dancer and even a magician. In a male-dominated industry, Lewis, a spunky perfectionist, transformed children’s television with an innovative, empowering style, and through Lamb Chop, expressed progressive ideas about women at the time. Despite setbacks, including the cancellation of her NBC shows and health challenges, Lewis demonstrated resilience and enduring relevance.
This fascinating biography melds archival footage, TV clips, and interviews, including insights from daughter Mallory (who continues performing with Lamb Chop). It explores the joyful bond between performer and puppet, and is sure to awaken cherished childhood memories with its heartfelt mix of nostalgia and showbiz. SHARI & LAMB CHOP honors Lewis’ visionary spirit as one of the foremost imaginations and storytellers across generations.
Director Bio: View on IMDB
Guest: Director Lisa D’Apolito
Lisa D’Apolito is an Emmy-nominated producer and director, best known for her documentary LOVE, GILDA (2018) about Gilda Radner, which earned two Creative Emmy nominations. She began her career as an actress with roles in film, theater, and television, including a part in Martin Scorsese’s GOODFELLAS, before transitioning to producing and directing in advertising. In 2018, Variety named Apolito one of “10 Documentarians to Watch.
Community Sponsor: The Mary Schwartz Summit
Event Sponsors: Dancing Goats Coffee, Sholom Tea
