Philadelphia Premiere
Downtown Express

Closing Night / The Gershman Y
Saturday, November 17, 2012 / 7:30 PM

Director: David Grubin
USA, 2011, 90 minutes

This charming musical comedy of Big Apple dreams and Brighton Beach personalities stars real-life musicians in a singing love letter to the most musically rich city in the world. A family of talented Russian immigrant musicians plays the New York City subway in an attempt to make ends meet. The group's star violinist, Sasha (Grammy Winner Philippe Quint), has been given the chance of a lifetime: to study at Julliard for a shot at success as a professional musician and to earn a green card. During an open call audition, Sasha encounters "Downtown Express," a jazzy, lounge-fusion, hipster band with a catchy sound and a captivating lead singer, Ramona (played by acclaimed recording artist/songwriter Nellie McKay). Hoping to win her love, he volunteers to play violin for her band and gradually disarms her through his virtuoso playing and innocent, old-world charm. Will it be Carnegie Hall or the coffee house for Sasha?

Special Guests: Director David Grubin & Star Nellie McKay

Closing Night Party at World Cafe Live:

Join us following the film for a Closing Night Party you'll never forget! Here's what you get:

- ticket to see Downtown Express at The Gershman Y
- round-trip shuttle bus ticket to World Cafe Live
- one ticket to Closing Night Party at World Cafe Live with 10:30pm performance by Nellie McKay
- One drink ticket
- Free appetizers and drink specials at World Cafe Live

Prices:
$45 Film + Party
$30 Film + Party (35 and under)
$12 Film Only
Free: Supporters of the PJFF (Golden Circle, Producers, Directors, & Actors only)

Sponsored by the National Museum of American Jewish History and The Richard and Marlene Ferst Family Foundation

Fall Film Festival sponsored by SEED THE DREAM FOUNDATION, Marcy Gringlas & Joel Greenberg

Watch the trailer now