See more, pay less with the Festival Pass! If you’re planning to see multiple events, you can save by purchasing a Festival Pass for $40. (Please note that the Festival Pass includes all events but does not include books.)

The 24th annual Ann Katz Festival of Books & Arts presented by Herbert Simon Family Foundation is a three-week festival featuring well-known authors, award-winning films and local visual and performing artists. For a full list of events, visit JCCindy.org/events.

Heartland Film Festival presents a selection of award-winning shorts.

Films include:

OUSMANE (Narrative Grand Prize, Academy Award qualifier)

Ousmane, a newly arrived immigrant living in Montreal, faces a challenging situation when he meets an elderly disoriented lady at the end of his workday.

BLACK SLIDE (Animated Grand Prize, Academy Award qualifier)

Eviah, a young and timid kid on the brink of puberty, and his best friend sneak into the Black Slide, the most terrifying ride in Aqua Fun. There, Eviah will gain insight to prepare him for events about to unfold at home.

BACON ‘N’ LACES (Audience Choice)

A single dad of three boys manages a diner. But, there’s more to John than meets the eye.

STRANGER AT THE GATE (Documetary Grand Prize, Indiana Spotlight, Academy Award qualifier)

After 25 years of service, U.S. Marine Mac McKinney returns home to Indiana filled with an all-consuming rage toward the people he had been fighting against. Still fueled by his desire to fight for his country, he plans to bomb the local mosque. But when he comes face to face with the community of Afghan refugees and others of Muslim faith that he seeks to kill, his plan takes an unexpected turn.

A perennial favorite – two great Festivals in one program.

The JCC is a nonprofit organization; donations from program participants like you help us continue to provide stellar Arts & Education programming. Visit JCCindy.org/donate and select “Arts & Education” under the Campaign dropdown to make a donation.