Rabbi's Journey From Drag Queen Rebel to Spiritual Leader Chronicled in New Documentary

NEW YORK — Amichai Lau-Lavie's life is anything but conventional. The 39th-generation descendant of Orthodox rabbis, including chief rabbis of Israel, Lau-Lavie has carved a unique path, one that blends tradition with a radical embrace of queer identity and artistic expression. A new documentary, "Sabbath Queen," captures this extraordinary journey, tracing his evolution from a drag queen performing in New York City clubs to an influential rabbi and spiritual leader.

The film, directed by Sandi DuBowski, follows Lau-Lavie over two decades, beginning in the late 1990s when he arrived in New York. He quickly became known for his drag persona, Rebbetzin Hadassah Gross, the widow of six Hasidic rabbis. This character allowed Lau-Lavie to explore themes of gender, religion, and identity in ways he felt he couldn't as himself. DuBowski noted that the drag persona served as a "wink and an invitation" into Lau-Lavie's complex world, enabling him to lead religious rituals and connect with people on a deeper level.

From Rebbetzin Hadassah to Rabbi Amichai

Lau-Lavie's journey took an unexpected turn when he decided to pursue rabbinical ordination. He enrolled in the Jewish Theological Seminary of America, a move that surprised many who knew him. In 2016, he received his ordination, becoming the first openly queer rabbi in his family's long lineage. This decision reflects Lau-Lavie's commitment to both honoring his family tradition and "queering it up," as he put it. He seeks to fuse reverence and irreverence in his approach to ritual and faith.

His experiences as a drag queen deeply inform his rabbinical work. The documentary highlights how performing as Rebbetzin Hadassah Gross allowed him to connect with people who might otherwise be alienated from religious institutions. It gave him the confidence to address sensitive topics and challenge traditional norms within Judaism.

Founding Lab/Shul: A God-Optional Community

Lau-Lavie is the co-founding spiritual leader of Lab/Shul, a self-described "everybody-friendly, God-optional, artist-driven, pop-up experimental congregation" in New York City. Lab/Shul aims to create a space where people of all backgrounds can explore Jewish tradition in a creative and inclusive environment. The community embraces diversity and encourages members to bring their whole selves to religious practice.

Lab/Shul's services often incorporate music, art, and storytelling, creating a multi-sensory experience that appeals to a wide range of people. Lau-Lavie's background in theater and performance is evident in the way he leads services, using ritual and storytelling to engage participants and foster a sense of connection.

"Sabbath Queen": A 21-Year Odyssey

"Sabbath Queen" premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in June 2024 and has since been screened at film festivals and cultural centers across the country. The film has garnered attention for its intimate portrayal of Lau-Lavie's life and its exploration of complex issues related to identity, religion, and social justice.

DuBowski, who also directed "Trembling Before G-d," a documentary about gay and lesbian Orthodox Jews, brings a sensitive and nuanced perspective to Lau-Lavie's story. The film doesn't shy away from the challenges Lau-Lavie has faced, both within the Jewish community and in his personal life. It also celebrates his resilience and his unwavering commitment to creating a more inclusive and compassionate world.

Addressing Contemporary Issues

The documentary also touches on contemporary political issues, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Lau-Lavie has been outspoken about the need for peace and justice in the region, and the film includes his reflections on the challenges of reimagining sacred traditions to achieve these goals.

DuBowski has noted that the film addresses the current climate of political polarization and the rise of right-wing ideologies. He sees Lau-Lavie's story as a counterpoint to these trends, offering a message of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

A Message of Hope and Inclusion

"Sabbath Queen" is more than just a biography of an unconventional rabbi. It's a film about the power of self-discovery, the importance of community, and the possibility of bridging divides. Lau-Lavie's journey from drag queen rebel to spiritual leader is a testament to the human capacity for growth and transformation. His story offers a message of hope and inclusion at a time when both are desperately needed. The film encourages viewers to question their own assumptions, embrace their authentic selves, and work towards building a more just and equitable world.