The Indian Panorama

Tag: FILM FEST

  • BOISE LAUNCHES DEBUT FILM FEST

    BOISE LAUNCHES DEBUT FILM FEST

    • By Mabel Pais

    The inaugural Boise Film Festival (BFF) will make its debut October 10-13 with a 20thAnniversary screening of Gavin O’Connor’s tale of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team’s Gold Medal journey, ‘Miracle’. The new film festival will present a highly curated list of 27 films (16 features, 11 shorts), along with master classes on producing and screenwriting as it brings filmmakers and film and television industry veterans (including prolific producer Mark Ciadi, and CSI’s Anthony Zuiker) to the city to celebrate independent film via a four-day event packed with programming and special events.

    The film festival’s epicenter and all screenings will be held at Boise’s Egyptian Theater Screenings (700 West Main Street) and The Flicks (646 West Fulton Street).

    Created to be a film festival focused on discovery, looking to find, highlight, and celebrate new cinematic voices and faces, to promote the next generation of film makers and artists. BFF will also include a special focus on films created and shot in the Pacific Northwest.

    BFF Founders and Executive Directors, Christine, and Mark Holder, said, “We are thrilled with the inaugural lineup of films and special events our team has lined up for this first edition of the Boise Film Festival. From the beginning, we have said we hope to be matchmakers here in our adopted city between film lovers and the type of films and filmmakers that we have championed in our careers as producers and filmmakers. Following what should be a fun night of hockey on film with our 20th anniversary presentation of ‘Miracle,’ will be a carefully curated and diverse group of films spanning several genres, as well as highly anticipated film industry panels, Q&As, and master classes, bringing a lot of top talent right here to Boise.”

    2024 BOISE FILM FESTIVAL (BFF) LINEUP

    OPENING NIGHT GALA

    Miracle (2004)

    Director: Gavin O’Connor; USA; 135 minutes

    The true story of Herb Brooks, the player-turned-coach who led the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team to victory over the seemingly invincible Soviet squad.

    Preceded by

    ECHL Unfiltered Episode 1: Idaho Steelheads – For the Love of the Game

    Director: Tyler Nimmons; USA; 30m

    The first episode of the series looks at the Idaho Steelheads hockey team and the challenges they face in the new season and their quest for Kelly Cup glory.

    ADDITIONAL NARRATIVE FEATURES

    Audrey         

    Director: Natalie Bailey; Australia; 97m

    Birthrite         

    Director: Ross Partridge; USA; 100m

    Chaperone    

    Director: Zoë Eisenberg; USA; 102m

    Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point      

    Director: Tyler Taormina; USA; 106m

    Cold Wallet   

    Director: Cutter Hodierne; USA; 84m

    Grassland     

    Directors: Sam Friedman, Will Bermudez; USA; 88m

    La Cocina      

    Director: Alonso Ruizpalacios; Mexico, USA; 139m

    Saturn

    Director: Eric Esau; USA; 100m

    Tapawingo

    Director: Dylan K. Narang; USA; 109m

    DOCUMENTARY FEATURES

    A New Kind of Wilderness  

    Director: Silje Evensmo Jacobsen; Norway; 84m

    Every Little Thing    

    Director: Sally Aitken; Australia; 93m

    Linda Perry: Let It Die Here

    Director: Don Hardy; USA; 93m

    Maya and the Wave

    Director: Stephanie Johnes; USA; 95m 

    Porcelain War           

    Directors: Brendan Bellomo, Slava Leontyev; Australia/USA/Ukraine; 87m

    Resynator     

    Director: Alison Tavel; USA; 96m

    Shari & Lamb Chop 

    Director: Lisa D’Apolito; USA; 92m

    Sugarcane    

    Directors: Emily Kassie, Julian Brave NoiseCat; Canada; 107m

    SHORTS

    Bite    

    Director: Jorey Worb; USA; 14m

    Bird Drone (Credit : theboisefilmfest.com)

    Bird Drone    

    Director: Radheya Jegatheva; Australia; 9m

    Bogota Story

    Director: Esteban Pedraza; Colombia, USA; 16m

    Border Hopper

    Director: Nico Casavecchia; USA; 14m

    Chauncey

    Directors: Reilly Anspaugh, Daniel Rashid; USA; 11m

    Fanatic          

    Director: Taran Killam; USA; 16m

    ILY, Bye         

    Director: Taylor James; USA; 14m

    Mankind

    Director: Jacob Ronnow; USA; 26m

    Midnight Snack

    Directors: Samuel Dhooge, Rani Nagels, Jarne Meersman;  Belgium; 2m

    Mother Of Portland – WORLD PREMIERE

    Director: Kyle LaMontagne; USA; 7m 

    The Soul Trader       

    Director: Susan Dynner; USA; 12m

    Learn more about the Festival and the complete lineup of films and events, visit theboisefilmfest.com

    TICKETS

    To purchase passes and tickets, or for more information, visit theboisefilmfest.com.

    The Boise Film Festival (BFF)

    Set to make its debut in October 2024, the Boise Film Festival will feature and celebrate independent films and filmmakers during a four-day event which will feature screenings, panels, Q&As, and masterclasses. BFF seeks to be a festival of discovery, looking to find, highlight, and celebrate new cinematic voices and faces, and to promote the next generation of filmmakers and artists. BFF will also include a special focus on films created and shot in the Pacific Northwest.

    (Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Business, and Education)

     

  • NJPAC & DODGE FOUNDATION CELEBRATE POETRY AS CATALYST FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE

    NJPAC & DODGE FOUNDATION CELEBRATE POETRY AS CATALYST FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE

    • By Mabel Pais

    The 20th DODGE POETRY FESTIVAL, which has been headquartered at NJPAC since 2010, will fill downtown Newark with poetry, October 17 to 19. Over the course of 40 years, this event, the country’s largest poetry festival, has welcomed more than 150,000 people to readings, performances and more.

    This year’s reimagined Dodge Poetry Festival will mix spoken word poetry with jazz, hip hop and R&B at readings, performances, outdoor events and more. All are designed to inspire a community mobilizing for racial and social justice, repair, and healing.

    A full lineup and event details for the Festival will be announced at the end of July.

    NUYORICAN POETS CAFE

    For the Summer Dodge Poetry, on July 20 at 7PM, the historic institution Nuyorican Poets Café (njpac.org/event/nuyorican-poets-cafe-dodge-poetry) brings an all-star lineup of poets —Edwin Torres, Emanuel Xavier and co-founder Lois Griffith — to NJPAC, with Nuyorican Poets Café Executive Director Caridad De La Luz “La Bruja” hosting.

    The second part of the event is a slam showcase with the 2024 Nuyorican Slam Team that opens into an open mic led by Newark arts organization EvoluCulture (evoluculture.com).

    TICKETS

    For Tickets, visit njpac.org/event/nuyorican-poets-cafe-dodge-poetry.

    The Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation

    Established in 1974, the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation envisions a just and equitable New Jersey where people of all races and communities have equitable access to opportunities to thrive. Over its 50-year history, the Dodge Foundation has distributed more than $500 million in grants and technical support to New Jersey nonprofits. Today, building on decades of learning, the organization focuses its support on those who are directly addressing the root causes and repair of structural racism and inequity to transform lives in New Jersey.

    New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)

    Phone: 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722)

    Follow NJPAC Online:

    Website:    njpac.org

    Twitter:     @NJPAC

    Instagram:   @NJPAC

    Hashtag:    #NJPAC

    Facebook:    facebook.com/NJPAC

    YouTube:     NJPACtv

    Follow NJPAC’s Standing in Solidarity Series Online:

    Website:     njpac.org/takeastand

    Hashtag:       #NJPACTakeAStand

    Youtube:       Standing in Solidarity playlist

    ——————————————–

    ENJOY A VARIETY OF EVENTS AT THE ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL OF DALLAS

    • By Mabel Pais

    Featuring

    Director KARAN TEJPAL’s Feature STOLEN

    Director AMIT KAUR’s Short CUPPA CHAI

    And many more

    The ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL of DALLAS, Texas (AFFD) for its annual 23rd edition takes place July 25-28. All screenings will take place at the Angelika Film Center Dallas (5321 E. Mockingbird Lane, #230).

    AFFD Executive Director Thomas Schubert, said, “The programming for this year’s edition of the film festival goes back to the basics of what AFFD has been delivering to Dallas audiences for more than two decades now: striking dramas, high comedies, action, thrillers, horror, and insightful documentaries for and about Asians and Asian Americans. The Angelika will once again play host to appearances and conversations with our filmmakers and talent, and we will celebrate their work both as we screen their films and through our other special events and parties that truly make the Asian Film Festival of Dallas a can’t miss event for DFW film lovers.”

    2024 Asian Film Festival of Dallas Lineup

    OPENING NIGHT

    The Movie Emperor

    Director: Ning Hao; China; 126m

    CENTERPIECE

    Tokyo Cowboy

    Director: Marc Marriott; Japan; 118m

    CLOSING NIGHT

    Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In

    Director: Soi Cheang; Hong Kong; 125m

    SATURDAY SHOWCASE

    The Guest

    Director: Yeon Je-gwang; South Korea; 76m

    ADDITIONAL NARRATIVE FEATURES

    A Childless Village

    Director: Reza Jamali; Iran; 81m

    A Long Shot 

    Director: Gao Peng; China; 117m 

    Moscow Mission      

    Director: Herman Yau; China; 128m

    Ms. Apocalypse      

    Director: Lim Seon-ae; South Korea; 116m

    Namesake     

    Director: Yung-Chi Chen; Taiwan; 79m

    Old Fox

    Director: Hsiao Ya-Chuan; Taiwan; 111m

    One-Percent Warrior

    Director: Yamaguchi Yudai; Japan; 96m

    Post Truth     

    Director: Chengpeng Dong; China; 112m

    Rose & Samurai 2: Return of the Pirate Queen   

    Director: Hidenori Inoue; Japan; 174m

    Stolen (Credit: asianfilmdallas.com)

    Stolen

    Director: Karan Tejpal; India; 94m

    The Tenants 

    Director: Yoon Eun-Kyoung; South Korea; 88m

    DOCUMENTARY FEATURES

    Art is Love: Nepal   

    Directors: Daniel Driensky, Sarah Reyes; United States/Nepal; 71m

    Ashima          

    Director: Kenji Tsukamoto; United States; 86m

    SHORT FILMS

    Benkyodo: The Last Manju Shop in J-Town        

    Directors: Akira Boch, Tadashi Nakamura; United States; 15m

    Captured                                           

    Director: Tomoaki Kaneko; Japan; 12m

    Champion                                         

    Director: Kim J.Y. Han; United States; 13m

    Cuppa Chai (Credit: asianfilmdallas.com)

    Cuppa Chai

    Director: Amit Kaur; United Kingdom; 10m

    Floor                                      

    Director: Caitlin Boston; United States; 11m

    Happy Doomsday                                        

    Director: Sol O; Republic of Korea; 13m

    Midori                                    

    Director: Dohyun KIM; Republic of Korea; 13m

    Newspapers                                      

    Director: Vu Hoang; United States; 14m

    Viral                                       

    Director: Al Chang; United States; 11m

    VoiceClub     

    Director: Taeyoung Kim; Republic of Korea; 25m

    TICKETS

    To purchase badges, tickets and for more information, go to asianfilmdallas.com

    AFFD

    The Asian Film Festival of Dallas (AFFD) is dedicated to celebrating and supporting emerging and established Asian and Asian-American filmmakers and sharing the rich diversity of Asian culture through the medium of cinema. Over the last 20+ years, the festival has provided opportunities for over 400 Asian and Asian-American filmmakers to share their vision, often providing the only venue for their films to be shown in Dallas. The films have also allowed festival goers a chance to experience other lives and cultures without leaving their seats.

    (Mabel Pais writes on Social Issues, The Arts and Entertainment, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Business, and Education)

  • WORLD CULTURE FILM FEST AIMS TO ELEVATE HUMAN CONSCIOUSNESS

    • By Mabel Pais

    The inaugural World Culture Film Festival (WCFF) is set to captivate audiences in Los Angeles from July 25-28, 2024. This vibrant event promises entertainment that uplifts, bringing stories from every part of the world that elevate human consciousness through the art of cinema.

    The much-anticipated festival is inspired by globally renowned humanitarian and emissary of peace, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar who has inspired millions around the world with a vision of a stress-free, violence-free world through his life and work.

    Over 60 participating countries including Australia, Belgium, Mexico, Tibet, Japan, Germany, and Brazil and 60+ films are in competition as part of the official selections. The films will be showcased in person at USC’s Ray Stark Theater and the newly-reopened former-Downtown Independent Theater, and on the online streaming platform, EOFlix (available after). 

    FILMS

    Opening Night: The Monk and the Gun (Credit : WCFF)

    Commencing the 4-day program is the Opening Night feature film presentation of ‘The Monk and The Gun’ by Bhutan-born writer and director Pawo Choyning Dorji, who rose to prominence with his 2019 Oscar-nominated feature film (best international feature), ‘Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom.’

    Closing Night: Perfect Days (Credit : WCFF)

    Some of the prominent films that will screen are Justin Grant and Laurens Goud’s ‘Our Voice, Our Heart’ (2024 Golden Doc Winner, Asia & Australia), Radha Mehta’s ‘Dosh’ (2024 Slamdance George Starks Spirit Award Winner), Julio Palacio’s ‘Makayla’s Voice: A Letter to the World’ (2024 Tribeca Best Short Documentary), Dash Kolos’ ‘Crown,’ Harry Holland’s ‘Last Call’ starring Tom Holland, and Oscar Nominee Wim Wenders’ ‘Perfect Days,’ the Closing Night film of the festival.

    OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

    Some of the big event highlights outside of the screenings include – a live table read of the script, ‘Logic of Love’ with renowned director and producer Barnet Bain (‘What Dreams May Come,’ ‘The Celestine Prophecy’), industry panels such as the Film Festival Director’s Panel, an Environmental Panel, and a Storytelling Panel with Vernon Foster, Gil Junger (‘10 Things I Hate About You’), and Sebastien Siegel (‘Grace and Grit’). Capping the events schedule is a binaural beats music experience with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and music composer and recording producer, Stephen Hilton (‘Kung Fu Panda’, ‘Quantum of Solace’).

    EXECUTIVE TEAM

    Leading the film festival team are executive directors, Anabelle D. Munro and Sej Saraiya. This dynamic duo brings years of experience in film production and film festival leadership. Munro is the CEO and Founder of the ETHOS Film Awards and Institute, currently in its 6th season. She is an award-winning director, writer and producer at Blue Boots Entertainment. Saraiya is an award- winning, transdisciplinary visual artist with a focus on indigenous narratives. Her films boast over thirty international awards and her photographs grace galleries, universities, and museums. She serves on the board of the Garifuna Indigenous Film Festival, contributes to the Topanga Film Festival, and holds a Master of Fine Arts from USC.

    In a joint statement, Saraiya and Munro, who also programmed the films, said, “We are thrilled to be launching the inaugural World Culture Film Festival, hosted by the Art of Living Foundation and in partnership with USC. The overwhelming response we have received from filmmakers across the globe has been nothing short of inspiring.” The co-executive directors further added, “We are particularly grateful to be entrusted with the vision of a remarkable and kind spirit who stands as one of the most influential humanitarians of our time. WCFF warmly welcomes everyone from around the world to join us in this celebration of film as a powerful medium for envisioning a better tomorrow.”

    Jatin Chaurasia, the driving force behind WCFF, is an accomplished executive producer with a rich 20-year background in entrepreneurship. As CEO of Sumeru Inc. and Sumeru Studios, his expertise in leading international teams and pioneering technological innovation has significantly benefited legacy organizations worldwide.

    PARTNERS

    In its maiden year itself, WCFF has attracted partners such as USC School of Cinematic Arts, screening a total of 11 USC student films, Filmmakers Alliance, EOFlix, Sumeru Studios, and Ethos Film Awards.

    TICKETS

    Online tickets and passes are available after July 1, and online screenings are available on July 25, 2024. Visit worldculturefilmfestival.org.

    World Culture Film Festival (WCFF)

    The World Culture Film Festival is a premier event that showcases diverse cultures through the lens of cinema. With a mission to provide uplifting entertainment and foster unity, the festival brings together filmmakers, artists, and audiences from around the globe. WCFF showcases and awards works that are culturally diverse and unifying, elevate human consciousness through cinema, build bridges between cultures and communities, and foster the growth of conscious media that uplifts and positively influences society. Learn more at worldculturefilmfestival.org

    Connect with the Film Fest on Social Media:

    Instagram: @worldculturefilmfestival

    Facebook: @worldculturefilmfestival

    Program Schedule: https://www.worldculturefilmfestival.org/attend

    Events Schedule: https://www.worldculturefilmfestival.org/events

    Passes and Tickets: https://www.worldculturefilmfestival.org/passes

    Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

    Learn more at worldculturefilmfestival.org/our-inspiration

    All Events are subject to change.

    (Mabel Pais writes on Social Issues, The Arts and Entertainment, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Business, and Education)

     

  • REELABILITIES FILM FEST RAISES THE BAR ON ACCESSIBILITY AND INCLUSION

    • By Mabel Pais

    Featuring RADHA MEHTA’s ‘Dosh’

    The REELABILITIES FILM FESTIVAL: NEW YORK (reelabilities.org/newyork) is proud to present its 16th edition of films and schedule. There will be a star-studded opening night, following which the festival has 26 films selected for the Festival, April 3-10, 2024.

    Raising the bar on accessibility and inclusion, the Festival will take place in multiple venues throughout NYC, Long Island and Westchester, with a selection of titles available online from April 3–10, 2024. This year brings together audiences to explore and celebrate the artistic expression and engaging stories of groundbreaking disabled talent.

    The ReelAbilities Film Festival is the largest showcase in the United States dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation of the lives, stories, and artistic expressions of people with disabilities. Through riveting films and engaging conversations, accompanied by an Industry Summit and other cultural events, ReelAbilities brings the wider community together to celebrate and explore our shared human experience. All presentations bring groundbreaking accessibility, raising the bar on inclusive film screenings and events.

    “These films are not just inclusive, they are first and foremost great films, and happen to highlight a variety of important topics such as disability inclusion, human rights, and other social issues.” says Isaac Zablocki, ReelAbilities’ co-founder and director. “This is our most diverse lineup to date and we are proud to feature authentic and first-person stories that bring these underserved images to the surface in the most responsible and engaging manner.”

    The festival slate announced to date includes 12 features and 14 shorts in the film lineup. Close to 60% of the films are World, US and NY premieres, and 50% are made by women filmmakers. At 42%, this year includes a record number of US-produced feature films, alongside films from the UK, Bolivia, Australia, the Netherlands, Kurdistan and more.

    The ReelAbilities Film Festival: New York will continue to host its annual Industry Summit on April 8 and 9, highlighting topics of disability inclusion and equity in the film and performing arts industries, in partnership with The NYC Mayor’s Office for Media and Entertainment. An expanded pitch program and a slate of industry awards will be announced in the coming weeks.

    The festival will also showcase additional events and conversations relating to disabilities throughout the week of the festival including its popular Comedy Night, and The Future of Accessible Beauty panel.

    2024 REELABILITIES FILM FESTIVAL LINEUP 

    Join the JCC Festival organizers at the 16th Annual ReelAbilities Film Festival: New York, April 3–10, celebrating disability through film, both virtually and in person in venues throughout NY.

    All films are followed by a conversation with filmmakers, protagonists and guests!

    OPENING NIGHT

    EZRA – New York City Premiere

    Dir. Tony Goldwyn; Narrative; English; US; 2023; 100 min

    Ezra, Opening Night film (Credit / reelabilities.org)

    EZRA follows Max Bernal (Bobby Cannavale), a stand-up comedian living with his father (Robert De Niro), while struggling to co-parent his autistic son Ezra (introducing William Fitzgerald) with his ex-wife (Rose Byrne). When forced to confront difficult decisions about their son’s future, Max and Ezra embark on a cross-country road trip that has a transcendent impact on both their lives.

    Watch the trailer – youtu.be/Q1-M9lwNIgQ

    WEDNESDAY APR 3; 6:00 PM; THE TIMES CENTER (reelabilities.org/newyork/venue/times-center)

    CLOSING NIGHT

    GOOD BAD THINGS

    Dir. Shane D. Stanger; US; 2023; 96 min

    Danny, a young man with muscular dystrophy, steps out of his comfort zone and into the world of online dating after being disillusioned by failed relationships. An unexpected match with Madi, an enigmatic photographer, challenges him to be vulnerable and sparks a profound journey of self-acceptance, discovering the extraordinary beauty of his unique body. 

    Trailer – youtu.be/WZ90D3lvLZM

    WEDNESDAY APR 10; 6:00 PM; MARLENE MEYERSON JCC MANHATTAN

    (reelabilities.org/newyork/venue/marlene-meyerson-jcc-manhattan)

    DARUMA

    Dir. Alexander Yellen; US; 2023; 104 min

    When day-drinking, unemployed paraplegic Patrick finds out he is the father of a 4-year-old girl he never knew existed, he enlists the help of his double amputee veteran neighbor Robert to drive him and his newfound daughter across the country to live with her maternal grandparents.

    Clip – youtu.be/BISGJlyYpzY

    SATURDAY APR 6; 8:30 PM; MARLENE MEYERSON JCC MANHATTAN

    TUESDAY APR 9; 7:00 PM; JCC OF STATEN ISLAND (reelabilities.org/newyork/venue/jcc-staten-island-stolzenberg-social-hall)

    IS THERE ANYBODY OUT THERE?

    Dir. Ella Glendining; UK; 2023; 87 min

    While navigating daily discrimination, a filmmaker who loves her unusual body searches the world for another person like her and explores what it takes to love oneself fiercely despite society’s misconceptions. 

    Trailer – youtu.be/yZGIjfQgg-c

    THURSDAY APR 4; 8:15 PM; MARLENE MEYERSON JCC MANHATTAN

    FRIDAY APR 5; 8:15 PM; MAYSLES DOCUMENTARY CENTER

    (reelabilities.org/newyork/venue/maysles-documentary-center)

    SUNDAY APR 7; 2 PM; DCTV FIREHOUSE CINEMA

    (reelabilities.org/newyork/venue/dctv-downtown-community-television-center) 

    LA LUCHA

    Dir. Violeta Ayala; Australia/US/Bolivia; 2023; 93 min

    La Lucha (Credit / reelabilities.org)

    Activists lead a courageous 35-day, 250-mile journey across the Andes to reach the Bolivian capital, battling harsh conditions and hunger along the way. Confronting barricades, riot police, and hostility from fellow citizens, these activists persist and ultimately arrive in La Paz, rewriting national history.

    Trailer – youtu.be/aSmPUt_jRtE

    STREAMING APR 3-10

    SOCIAL JUSTICE FRIDAY: APR 5; 6:00 PM; MARLENE MEYERSON JCC MANHATTAN

    SATURDAY APR 6; 1:30 PM; MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE

    (reelabilities.org/newyork/venue/museum-moving-image)

    LEFT ALONE RHAPSODY:  The Musical Memoir of Pianist John Bayless

    Dir. Stewart M. Schulman; US; 2023; 100 min

    At 25, Leonard Bernstein’s protégé, John Bayless, debuted at Carnegie Hall, launching a 30-year-long recording career as a solo pianist, composer, and improviser. At 54, after a left-brain stroke immobilized his right side, John is determined to reinvent himself as a one-handed musician and storyteller.

    Trailer – youtu.be/EiaJ44-Klys 

    STREAMING APR 3-10

    THURSDAY APR 4; 7:00 PM; BROOKLYN PUBLIC LIBRARY (reelabilities.org/newyork/venue/bpl) 

    MONDAY APR 8; 6:00 PM; MARLENE MEYERSON JCC MANHATTAN

    LOUD LOVE

    Dir. Bing Wang; USA; 2024; 90 min

    Pushing back against ongoing prejudice, deaf gay couple Alan and Brian pursue parenthood, raising two hearing children through international surrogacy. Loud Love follows their journey of fatherhood, family, and relationships.

    Trailer: youtu.be/o6BqtR0Bnu4

    STREAMING APR 3-10

    SUNDAY APR 7; 5:30 PM; MARLENE MEYERSON JCC MANHATTAN

    NAME ME LAWAND

    Dir. Edward Lovelace; UK; 2022; 82 min

    Deaf since birth, five-year-old Lawand undertakes a treacherous journey with his family from Iraq to Derby, home of the Royal School for the Deaf. When this new life comes under threat of deportation, they begin a new quest – a fight to stay in the place they now call home.

    Trailer: youtu.be/bZq0I84g4Uk

    MONDAY APR 8; 7:15 PM; JACOB BURNS FILM CENTER (reelabilities.org/newyork/venue/jacob-burns-film-center)

    TUESDAY APR 9; 6:00 PM; MARLENE MAYERSON JCC MANHATTAN

    US; 2023; 104 min 

    OKTHANKSBYE

    Dir. Nicole van Kilsdonk; Netherlands; 2023; 92 min

    Classmates at a boarding school for the deaf, shy Jamie and bold Imane set off on an unexpected road trip to Paris. When things do not go as planned, and the trip takes an adventurous turn, Jamie must come out of her shell.

    Trailer – youtu.be/baYa-4EWKQI

    STREAMING APR 3-10

    WEDNESDAY APR 3; 5:30 PM; MANHATTAN COLLEGE KELLY COMMONS

    (reelabilities.org/newyork/venue/manhattan-college) 

    RALLY CAPS

    Dir. Lee Cipolla; US; 2023; 95 min

    Rally Caps (Credit / reelabilities.org)

    In this star-studded family drama, young Jordy, who is recovering from a serious Little League baseball injury, goes to summer camp where he forms a friendship with Lucas, who just had Cochlear Implant surgery. Together, they form a special bond as friends and pitcher/catcher duo and lead their team in the camp championship game.

    Clip – youtu.be/VZox-vk7nIM

    SUNDAY APR 7; 2:45 PM; MARLENE MEYERSON JCC MANHATTAN (Shown with: Deaf Giants 

    TUESDAY APR 9; 7:00 PM; GOLD COAST IFF AT MANHASSET CINEMAS

    (reelabilities.org/newyork/venue/gciff)

    SEXUAL HEALING

    Dir. Elsbeth Fraanje; Netherlands; 2022; 55 min

    Evelien, a 53-year-old woman with cerebral palsy, sets out on a disarming and often funny quest for intimacy and exploration of her sexuality, unearthing needs she has been suppressing her entire life.

    Trailer – youtu.be/2CQ2tw1oirI

    STREAMING APR 3-10

    MONDAY APR 8; 8:30 PM; MARLENE MEYERSON JCC MANHATTAN

    TELL THEM YOU LOVE ME

    Dir. Nick August-Perna; US; 2023; 103 min

    This true-crime documentary follows the story of an esteemed university professor who becomes embroiled in a controversial affair with Derrick Johnson, a non-verbal man with cerebral palsy, leading to a criminal trial that would challenge our perceptions of disability and the nature of consent.

    Clip – youtu.be/Y5TpsEOtcw0

    THURSDAY APR 4; 7:00 PM; MAYSLES DOCUMENTARY CENTER 

    FRIDAY APR 5; 7:00 PM; CHELSEA FACTORY (reelabilities.org/newyork/venue/chelsea-factory)

    SATURDAY APR 6; 6:15 PM; MARLENE MEYERSON JCC MANHATTAN

    REEL SHORTS

    OUT OF THE BOX

    FILMS THAT PUSH THE LIMITS OF CREATIVITY AND IMAGINATION. STREAMING APRIL 3–10

    MMJCCM: SAT, APR 6, 2 PM

    (NEURO)DIVERGENT

    A UNIQUE LENS INTO THE DIVERSE AND AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES OF INDIVIDUALS WITH NEUROLOGICAL DIFFERENCES.

    STREAMING APRIL 3–10

    MMJCCM: SUN, APR 7, 1 PM

    MENTAL HEALTH

    POIGNANT AND INSIGHTFUL REFLECTIONS ON THE COMPLEXITIES OF MENTAL HEALTH.

    STREAMING APRIL 3–10

    MMJCCM: SAT, APR 6, 4:30 PM

    DOSH – East Coast Premiere

    DIRECTED BY RADHA MEHTA

    16 Min; English, Hindi; United States; Narrative; Short; Open Captions

    Dosh (Credit / reelabilities.org)

    Family, motherhood

    When her son’s life is put at risk at their family’s pre-wedding ritual, a mother with hearing loss must decide how to seek help for her husband to keep her family safe.

    ACCESSIBILITY

    ReelAbilities strives to include all people.

    All films are presented with open captions and all venues are accessible to mobility devices. At the MMJCC, the main festival venue, the following are available:

    ASL Interpretation; CART; Audio description; Hearing assist; Information in Braille

    For specific accommodation at all other venues, please check online or contact the screening venue directly.

    Wearing a mask is encouraged.

    FOR FULL FESTIVAL SCHEDULE + INFO, VISIT: REELABILITIES.ORG/NEWYORK.

    (Mabel Pais writes on Social Issues, The Arts and Entertainment, Spirituality, Education, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, and Business)

  • ENJOY SUMMER AT MIDTOWN’S CHAIN FILM FEST

    By Mabel Pais

    Personal Stories. Original Ideas. New Work.

    Voted one of the top 100 film festivals on FilmFreeway!

    The Chain NYC Film Festival (ChainFilmFestival.com) has a diverse lineup of films included in this year’s edition, for the 11th year. The Festival takes place, in person, August 4 – 13, in the heart of midtown at 312 W. 36th Street, 3rd and 4th Floor, New York, NY 10018.

    The Chain NYC Film Festival believes that independent artists are the heart of all the work t he festival experiences locally and globally, thereby supporting true independent film, with specially curated film blocks from animated shorts by Oscar-nominated Disney animators to Asian Voices, LGBTQIA Stories, Comedies, BIPOC filmmakers and gripping documentaries from around the world.

    The selection of over 180 features, shorts, and web series, both narrative and documentaries, showcase the work of a variety of artists including Golden Globe-winner Jacqueline Bisset, Academy Award-nominee Andrew Chesworth, Hugh Dancy, Morgan Fairchild, Corey Feldman, Robin Givens, Tony Award-winner James Naughton, Academy Award-winner Mercedes Ruehl, Jefferson White.

    “We believe that this moment in history is why independent filmmaking is crucial to the future of our industry. The Chain NYC Film Festival is a fully independent film festival that has no connections or sponsorships with any AMPTP companies. As such, members of SAG-AFTRA & the WGA can participate in the Chain NYC Film Festival. We stand in solidarity with the SAG-AFTRA & WGA.”

    – Festival Director, Kirk Gostkowski

    For SAG-AFTRA’s official statement and further information, visit  http://www.sagaftrastrike.org/member-faqs

    Festival Highlights include:

    THE NANA PROJECT

    Director: Robin Givens (Boomerang, Riverdale, Batwoman).

    The Nana Project – left to right: Mercedes Ruehl with Morgan Fairchild. (Credit: ChainFilmFestival.com)

    Set in the competitive world of chess, we follow Nana’s journey in a heartwarming feel-good comedy about reuniting her grandsons and supporting her retirement community. Starring Academy Award-winner Mercedes Ruehl (The Fisher King, Lost in Yonkers, Hustlers, The Last Action Hero), Nolan Gould (Modern Family), Morgan Fairchild (Falcon Crest, Flamingo Road) and Charlene Tilton (Dallas).

    THE MISPRINT

    Director: Adam Volerich.

    Starring Jefferson White (Yellowstone)–When a reformed criminal receives a cry for help from his former partner in crime, he finds himself back in the game with no way out but through.

    THE BRAVE LOCOMOTIVE

    Director/Writer: Andrew Chesworth (Oscar-nominated).

    Old West musical tale with 1940s Andrews Sisters flair about a mighty little train facing harrowing disaster. Chesworth co-wrote and co-directed the animated short film One Small Step at Taiko Studios. Prior to that, he was an animator at Disney on such films as Frozen, Big Hero 6, Zootopia, and more. He is also an experienced character designer and director of animated commercials.

    MONSTR

    Director: Tank Standing Buffalo

    This animated short starring Corey Feldman (Stand By Me, The Lost Boys, The Goonies). How do you go on living when everything is taken from you in the blink of an eye? A young artist confronts his inner demons while apprenticing with a northwest totem carver after the death of his beloved.

    MY DEAR MR. WHITMAN

    Director: Jeremiah Dickey (Black Hawk Down, Hannibal)

    This animated excerpt from the documentary series Queer for Fear illustrates an 1872 letter of adoration sent to American poet Walt Whitman by a young British writer named Bram Stoker, years before he would find fame as the author of Dracula. Starring Hugh Dancy.

    NOT THE SAME CLARENCE

    Directors/Writers: Brian Russell (Yo Andrea), his son Sam Russell (Bad Tidings)

    This touching short film about parental aging and Alzheimer’s disease is a tribute to fathers and sons, featuring family bonds in front of and behind the camera. Starring Tony Award-winner James Naughton (And Just Like That, Planet of the Apes, Broadway’s Chicago, and City of Angels) and his son Greg Naughton (The Independents, Artistic Director of the Blue Light Theater Company).

    I’M OKAY, WE’RE OKAY

    Director/Co-Writer: Adrienne Acevedo Lovette (Better Call Saul, Fosse/Verdon, The Dark Room), Co-Writer/Actor: John Rice (Hidden Daylight, The Dark Room)

    I’m Okay, You’re Okay. (Credit: ChainFilmFestival.com)

    On a road trip with her unfaithful boyfriend, Ellie discovers she has DID (once called multiple personality disorder) and that her fractured identities are offering them clues about her mysterious past.

    LOREN & ROSE

    Director: Russell Brown

    Rose is a legendary actress trying to revive her career. Loren is a promising filmmaker. Over the course of their many encounters, a deep friendship evolves as their love of art, understanding of grief, and faith in life’s potential guide them through personal and creative transformations. Golden Globe-winner Jacqueline Bisset (Dancing on the Edge, Murder on the Orient Express, Bullitt) and Kelly Blatz (Aaron Stone, Senior Love Triangle) star with a chemistry that is at once authentic and intoxicating.

    MY SISTER’S WEDDING

    Director: Kenneth R. Frank

    My Sister’s Wedding. (Credit: ChainFilmFestival.com)

    Allison Valentine awakes on the day of her younger sister’s wedding with two simple goals: ensure the smooth execution of the ceremony and break the news of her resignation from the family business. Unfortunately, all members of the family have come with their own agenda and have asked Allison for her help in getting what they want. Will Allison continue to ignore what she needs to keep the peace? Or will she finally take a stand and risk hurting those she loves and ruining this important day?

    For more information and the complete film guide, visit chainfilmfest2023.eventive.org/films

    TICKETS

    Tickets purchased in advance have a lower price than those purchased at the door. To purchase tickets, visit chainfilmfest2023.eventive.org.

    HEALTH SAFETY PROTOCOL

    Masks are encouraged, but not required.

    The Chain NYC Film Festival

    The Chain NYC Film Festival has screened over 1,000 films in the past eight years. Past festival participants such as ‘Lady in Apartment No. 6’ have gone on to win Academy Awards.

    The Chain NYC Film Festival is a multi-disciplinary event that serves the NYC community by bringing access to quality independent film from around the world. Content accepted is work that comes from a personal experience, a new outlook or idea in the world of film, and has been produced within the past two years.

    Past guests include Richard LaGravenese (The Fisher King, Behind the Candelabra) and Richard Price (The Color of Money, The Wire).

    (Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Education, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Spirituality, and Business)

     

  • NYIFF OFFERS A FRESH PERSPECTIVE ON CONTEMPORARY INDIAN CINEMA

    By Mabel Pais

    The New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF), North America’s prestigious festival featuring longest-running cinema from the global Indian community runs its 23rd edition, in person, May 11-14 in New York City.

    This year’s festival lineup features 35 films that showcase the depth and range of contemporary Indian cinema, including cutting-edge dramas, documentaries, and shorts. The opening and other films will screen at Village East by Angelika, 181 2nd Ave., New York, NY 10003. The closing night film screening, followed by the awards function will be held at SVA Theatre, 333 West 23rd Street, New York, NY 10011.

    “As we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month in May, the New York Indian Film Festival provides an ideal opportunity for audiences to experience the best of Indian cinema and gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage of AAPI communities and appreciate the unique perspectives that they bring to the world of cinema,” said Suman Gollamudi, Executive Director.

    Several well-known Indian film personalities will be featured in a wide array of works, including:

    Three Of Us, Opening Night. (Photo Credit/ nyiff.us)

    Opening Film, ‘Three Of Us’ leads Shefali Shah (DelhiCrime/Netflix), Jaideep Ahlawat (Pataal Lok/Prime Video) and Swanand Kirkire

    Goldfish, Closing Night. (Photo Credit / nyiff.u)

    Closing Film, ‘Goldfish’ leads Kalki Koechlin (Margarita with a Straw) and Deepti Naval 

    Sharmila Tagore (Legendary Actress who worked in Satyajit Ray’s film, including The World of Apu), Manoj Bajpayee (Gangs of Wasseypur, Family Man, Satya, Aligarh) and Suraj Sharma (Life of Pi) in a special screening of Gulmohar. 

    Adil Hussain (Life of Pi) and Namisha Sajayan in Footprints on Water.

    Radhika Madan (Kuttey/Netflix) and Pooja Bhatt (Bombay Begums/Netflix) in Sanaa.

     Arjun Radhakrishnan in Vaat.

    Prasenjit Chatterjee in Shesh Pata. 

    Anupam Kher (The Big Sick, New Amsterdam and Hotel Mumbai), Danish Husain and Zarina Wahab in a narrative short Retake.

    Rajit Kapoor in the narrative short Birha.

    FILM SCHEDULE

    For the complete film schedule, updates and more, visit nyiff.us.

    Watch the Promo Video: youtu.be/rmLWJZ0tiN0

    “We aim to truly underscore the NYIFF commitment to diversity and cultural representation in film,” said Aseem Chhabra, NYIFF Festival Director. “This year, we will feature films in ten languages spoken in India: Bengali, English, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Malayalam, Marathi, Nagpuri, Punjabi, Tamil. All films will have English subtitles.”

    TICKETS

    Ticket prices are different for regular films, programs and opening & closing night films. Get more information at nyiff.us or eventbrite.com/cc/nyiff-2023-1992469.

    2023 FILM LINEUP

    Narrative Features 

    Bandaa (Hindi), dir. Apoorv Singh Karki, 138 mins., 2023

    Follower (Hindi, Kannada, Marathi), dir. Harshad Nalawade, 99 mins., 2022

    Footprints on Water (English, Malayalam, Tamil, Polish), dir. Nathalia Syam, 110 mins., 2022

    Goldfish (English) – Closing Night, Pushsan Kriplani, 101 mins., 2022

    Gulmohar (Special screening) (Hindi), dir. Rahul Chittella, 132 mins., 2022

    Mushroom (Bengali) dir. Samik Roy Choudhury, 64 mins., 2022

    Opium (Hindi), dir. Aman Sachdeva, 75 mins., 2022

    Pokhar ke Dunu Paar (Hindi), dir. Parth Saurabh, 104 mins., 2022

    Sanaa (Hindi), dir. Sudhanshu Saria, 117 mins., 2022

    Saudi Vellakka (Malayalam), dir. Tharun Moorthy, 134 mins., 2022

    Hadinelentu (Seventeeners), dir. Prithvi Konanur, 122 mins., 2022

    Shesh Pata (Bengali), dir. Atanu Ghosh, 120 mins., 2022

    Siya (Hindi), dir. Manish Mundra,108 mins., 2022

    Three of Us (Hindi) – Opening Night, dir. Avinash Arun Dhaware, 98 mins., 2021

    Vaat (Marathi), dr. Miransha Naik, 75 mins., 2022

    Documentary Features 

    Call Me Dancer (Special screening) (Hindi, English), dir. Leslie Shampaine, 84 mins., 2022

    Colonel Kalsi (English), dir. Geeta Gandbhir, Anand Kamalkar, 40 mins., 2022

    To Kill a Tiger (Hindi, Nagpuri), dir. Nisha Pahuja, 125 mins., 2022

    Urf (AKA) (Hindi), dir. Geetika Narag Abassi, 120 mins., 2022

    Shorts

    Shorts A – Narratives:

    Retake, dir. Shweta Basu Prasad (Hindi), 28 mins., 2023

    Running, dir. Arpita Mukherjee (English), 40 mins., 2022

    One Small Visit, dir. Jo Chim (English), 30 mins., 2022

    Outside Chance, dir. Michael Das (English), 11 mins., 2022

    The Name, dir. Aaron Strand (English), 7 mins, 2022

    Other Narrative Shorts (showing with features):

    Birha – The Journey Back Home (showing with Vaat) (Punjabi), dir. Puneet Prakash Pandey, 25 mins., 2021

    Chithi (showing with Mushroom) (Bengali), dir. Pubali Chaudhuri, 22 min., 2023

    Little Wings (showing with Mushroom) (Tamil) dir. Nveen Mu, 21 mins., 2022

    My Father’s Doctor (showing with Mushroom) (Kashmiri), dir. Danish Renzu, 18 mins., 2023

    Preet (showing with Opium) (Hindi), dir. Jayesh Jaidka, 22 mins, 2022

    Wagro (showing with Vaat) (Marathi), dir. Sainath Somnath Uskaikar, 10 mins., 2022

    Shorts B – Documentaries: 

    Basti, dir. Parinaz Jal (English, Hindi, Kannada), 36 mins., 2021

    Gopi, dir. Nishanth Gurumurthy (Kannada), 14 mins., 2022

    Letters to My Grandma, dir. Divya Hemant Kharnare (Marathi), 26 mins., 2023

    Raat: Night Time in Small Town India, dir. Third Eye Offline (English), 34 mins., 2022

    Other Documentary Shorts (showing with features):

    Bring it to the People (showing with Colonel Kalsi) (English), dir. Luis Palomino, 35 mins., 2022

    Kurosawa’s Grave (showing with Urf) (English) dir. Ben Lopez, 14 mins., 2021

    The New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF): 

    NYIFF is the oldest, most prestigious film festival screening premieres of feature, documentary and short films made from, of, and about the Indian subcontinent in the independent, arthouse, alternate and diaspora genres. Learn more at nyiff.us.

    Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC):

    Learn more at iaac.us

    ————————————-

    FILM FEST CELEBRATES 25 YEARS AND RETROSPECTIVE

    Yasmin Levy, Opening Night Performance. (Photo Credit / americansephardi.org)

    By Mabel Pais

    Join NYSJFF in celebrating its 25th Anniversary at the ASF – Center for Jewish History. This year’s Festival is hybrid, both in person May 7-11, as well as a new online platform, May 14-18, 2023.

    This 25th edition of the NYSJFF is dedicated to Ike, Molly and Steven Elias. There’s an opening night special performance by Yasmin Levy!

    The New York Sephardi Jewish Film Festival (NYSJFF) not only returns with outstanding films of all genres exploring the beauty, diversity, and vitality of Greater Sephardic Jewish communities’ culture and identity across the world, but also welcomes a new host and Artistic Director, the decorated filmmaker, writer, director, and Pomegranate Award recipient, Yemenite-Israeli born Na’ama Keha.

    Carefully curated to delight cinema lovers of all ages and communities, the new line-up includes 14 films in theatre and 15 Festival favorites and web exclusives on the streaming platform. The fest offers a unique blend of independent films mixing various styles and origins, including critically acclaimed movies, World, US, and New York premières, and a retrospective of NYSJFF’s best films from the past 25 years.

    To mark Israel’s 75th Anniversary, the Festival focuses on Israeli Sephardic themes and pays tribute to Ronit Elkabetz, the actress, filmmaker, and first Pomegranate Award Winner. Audiences will get to (re) discover her work and see — playing for the first time in North America — the 2022 documentary JE T’AIME RONIT ELKABETZ about her life and her use of fashion to make social statements.

    FILM FESTIVAL LINEUP & MORE

    For the complete film lineup, filmmaker appearances, updates and the highly anticipated names of this year’s Pomegranate Award Honorees! visit americansephardi.org/event/the-25th-new-york-sephardic-jewish-film-festival. The Pomegranate Award, sculpted by renowned Baghdad-born artist Oded Halahmy, recognizes extraordinary achievements in the arts. Past recipients include Albert Memmi, Enrico Macias, André Azoulay, Neta Elkayam, Lisa Azuelos, Saïd Ben Saïd, Elie Tahari, Caroline Aaron, Ema Shah, Sassoon Gabay, André Aciman, Amir Arison, and Lanie Kazan.

    TICKETS

    For tickets to individual films and all access film pass, visit nysjff.eventive.org/passes/buy/film_pass, for all access VIP pass, visit nysjff.eventive.org/passes/buy/vip_festival_pass.

    For all access online pass, visit nysjff.eventive.org/passes/buy/allaccess_online

    (Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Health & Wellness, Cuisine and Spirituality)

  • SLO FILM FEST NUDGES FILM LOVERS TO IN-PERSON VIEWING

    • By Mabel Pais

    Featuring

    Tribeca-Fest-Award-Winning Director NARDEEP KHURMI’S ‘Land of Gold’

    Director ABHIJEET ACHAR’S ‘Mysore Magic’

     Co-Director ABIDA CHOWDHURY’S ‘The Reflection on My Screen’

    And more

    Nardeep Khurmi’s ‘Land of Gold.’ (Photo credit : slofilmfest.org)
    ‘The Reflection On My Screen.’ (Photo credit / slofilmfest.org)

    The 29th Annual San Luis Obispo International Film Festival (SLO FILM FEST) takes place April 25-30, 2023 with a robust film lineup.

    San Luis Obispo Film Festival Director Skye McLennan said, “This year, the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival is focused on programming films and creating fun and exciting film events that are not available to our film fans every weekend at the multiplex. Seeing great films, meeting, and rubbing elbows with the filmmakers and actors responsible for them, and going to fun events built around all of it is what we promise to bring to SLO this year.”

    SAN LUIS OBISPO 2023 FILM LINEUP

    Opening Night Gala Selection

    BlackBerry

    Director: Matt Johnson l Country: USA l Running Time: 2h 2m

    The story of the meteoric rise and catastrophic demise of the world’s first smartphone.

    Closing Night Gala Selection

    Imordecai

    Director: Marvin Samel l Country: USA l Running Time: 1h 42m

    Based on a true story, IMordecai is a comedy about a Holocaust survivor whose life changes when his son buys him an iPhone. Mordecai (Judd Hirsch) likes to fix things. Ultimately, through letting go, he begins to heal the things he cannot fix and turn the pain of his past into something beautiful.

    Narrative Feature

    Land Of Gold

    Director: Nardeep Khurmi l Country: USA l Running Time: 1h 45m

    First-generation Punjabi truck driver Kiran is a soon-to-be dad. When on the job he hears pounding inside his shipping container and finds a young Mexican American girl inside, his already tumultuous life takes a drastic turn as he seeks to reunite her with her family. What begins as a road trip to Boston becomes much more as they form a friendship and teach each other unforgettable lessons.

    Narrative Short

    Mysore Magic

    Director: Abijeet Achar l Country: USA l Running Time: 14m

    Filmmakers of Tomorrow

    The Reflection on My Screen

    Filmmakers: Abida Chowdhury, Leslie Gomez, Christell Pelico, Zaira OrtizCountry: USA; Running Time: 6 min

    For a complete film lineup, visit slofilmfest.org.

    TICKETS

    More information, Tickets & Passes are available at slofilmfest.org.

    ————————————————————————————-

    AILEY ARTS CELEBRATE 15TH ANNIVERSARY WITH FREE DANCE & MOVEMENT CLASSES

    By Mabel Pais

    Do you know someone who wishes to participate in FREE classes, workshops and conversations to celebrate Alvin Ailey’s 15th Anniversary Ailey Day?

    Ailey class. (Photo Credit : NJPAC.)

    Dancers of all ages and levels of expertise are invited to join NJPAC and Ailey Arts In Education & Community Programs (AIE) for free classes, workshops and conversations at the 15th annual Ailey Celebration at the Arts Center (njpac.org/event/15th-anniversary-ailey-day), beginning at 9 AM on Saturday, April 29.

    Led by former Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater members and Ailey Teaching Artists, dancers of all ages and skill levels will join in the fun with a variety of dance and movement classes, including learning steps from Ailey’s masterpiece “Revelations,” artist talks, art projects, and more.

    Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (pressroom.alvinailey.org/alvin-ailey-american-dance-theater), founded in 1958 by Alvin Ailey the famed dancer, choreographer and activist, has performed annually at NJPAC since the Arts Center’s opening in 1997.

    For the past 15 years, in advance of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s engagement at the Arts Center, Ailey Day has welcomed hundreds of dance enthusiasts from across Greater Newark to a day of Ailey-inspired dance classes and more, including a workshop with two former Ailey dancers, Nasha Thomas (pressroom.alvinailey.org/arts-in-education/directors/nasha-thomas) and Amos Machanic (pressroom.alvinailey.org/the-ailey-extension/faculty/amos-machanic), where attendees can learn the choreography of Alvin Ailey’s signature masterpiece, Revelations (pressroom.alvinailey.org/alvin-ailey-american-dance-theater/repertory/revelations).

    “This is always a joyful day, a chance for our community to come together to celebrate the history and the legacy of an iconic African American dancer,” says Eyesha Marable, NJPAC’s Vice President, Community Engagement.

    Initially held in churches throughout the city, the ‘Ailey Day’ program now fills the Arts Center’s downtown Newark campus with dance classes throughout the day, including specialized classes for children, and a limited-mobility dance workshop that utilizes chairs and props. Ailey’s Teaching Artists will lead classes in jazz and Horton dance styles. Other instructors will offer classes that explore West African dance styles.

    In addition, visiting dance instructors will offer an insightful glimpse into their work through a panel conversation, and attendees will be invited to take part in arts and wellness activities including children’s book readings, health screenings, crafts and mosaic art making. The day concludes with a ‘Show and Share’ event, where participants will have a chance to perform what they’ve learned in class.

    “It’s always a joy to share the legacy of Alvin Ailey and his signature ballet, Revelations, with the Newark community. I’m inspired by the connections made through the workshops on Ailey Day at NJPAC,” says Nasha Thomas, National AileyCamp Director and Master Teacher for Arts In Education.

    REGISTRATION

    While the day’s events are free, registration is required. Community members are invited to register at njpac.org/event/15th-anniversary-ailey-day.

    Attendees will have access to discounted tickets to Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s May 12 and 13 performances at NJPAC.

    NJPAC

    To learn more, visit njpac.org.

    The Ailey Organization and Ailey Arts In Education & Community Programs

    For more information about Ailey’s performances and programs, visit alvinailey.org.

    ————————————————————————-

    NY NATIVE’S PHOTO EXHIBIT DISPLAYS 50 YEARS OF HIP HOP GREATS

    Hip Hop Artist Great, Tupac Shakur. (Photo Credit / Michael Benabib.)

    By Mabel Pais

    Native New Yorker, Celebrity photographer Michael Benabib proudly of Mexican-American heritage, exhibits some never before seen photos of the biggest Hip Hop stars of the ’80s and ’90s. The ‘In Your Grill Exhibit’ is Free to the general public, and many rare, never before seen photos are available for purchase. The ‘In Your Grill’ exhibit is open until Thursday, April 27th, at Legacy NYC, 98 Orchard Street. Michael Benabib has been a photographer his whole life. Born into a creative family and living downtown, Michael was exposed to the visual and cultural diversity of New York, which is evident in his body of work.

    A foundational moment, circa 1986, Benabib walked past a gathering of aspiring MCs at the original 298 Elizabeth Street storefront office of Rush Management and the original home of Def Jam Recordings. Noticing crowds of people hanging around the offices, his curiosity led him to the doors that began his career as a celebrity hip-hop photographer. Benabib asked to shoot some of the artists; it was this pivotal moment that Benabib’s dream of becoming a photographer was his career path– he shot a series of photos over several days while walking to work at a nearby photo studio. Now, over 35 years later, a few of those shots are some of the earliest Hip Hop images presented at this exhibit.

    Over the years, fanzine teen magazines hired Benabib on celebrity assignments. Publicists and record companies also hired him to shoot major album covers. He was essential, giving  Michael and these talented musicians the creative opportunities to develop their artistry together.

    Some photographs are exhibited at the Smithsonian, MOMA, The Metropolitan, Museum of Art, and the International Center of Photography. It is Michael’s pleasure to share this extensive collection depicting the rise of Hip Hop at Legacy NYC.

    Michael Benabib

    Learn more at michaelbenebib.com.

    (Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Health & Wellness, Cuisine and Spirituality