The 18th annual Contemporary Israeli Voices, curated and organized by Dalit Katz, director of the Center for Jewish Studies at Wesleyan University, will open Thursday, Oct. 22.  The 2020 series centers around Israeli artists who made their marks in Hollywood in cinema and TV. Live online multi-media presentations are followed by a Q&A session with the guest speaker. Admission is free.

Thursday, Oct. 22
“Acting and The Brain’s Plasticity”
Speaker: Ayelet Zurer
Actress Ayelet Zurer has studied neuroplasticity and the process that occurs in the brain while actors take on different roles and personas. Zurer will discuss her work in the films “Angels and Demons“ and “Man of Steel,” and the discipline required of actors in their commitment to their art.

Thursday, Nov. 12, 8 p.m.
“Why Hollywood Loves Israeli TV Shows”
Speaker: Ron Leshem
Award-winning screenwriter and author Ron Leshem will discuss the TV shows he is writing and producing, including “Valley of Tears,” “The Syrian Civil War” and “Euphoria.” The presentation will include video clips from some of his TV show