Join Minnesota Public Radio as the Movie Maven, Stephanie Curtis, hosts the top-talent 1940's film "Stormy Weather" at the Fitzgerald Theater on Saturday, February 26th at 7:30 p.m. The leading lady is Lena Horne in her legendary role, a fine tribute to her long and dazzling life. "Stormy Weather" is a film the Library of Congress has singled out as being as being "culturally, historically, and aesthetically significant." All of the show's entertainers were part of the black night club scene that moved between Harlem, New Orleans and Chicago. The major notables include Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, Fats Waller, Cab Calloway, the amazing Nicholson Brothers along with many more. It's a great story that acts like a party with playful banter and one incredible performance after another. The film was made in 1943 and includes the cultural stereotypes of the time. You will squirm. However, this does not rob the performance of its blow-away talent and raw showmanship. Education Director, Sarah Bellamy from the Penumbra Theater will join Stephanie to take a straight-on look at stereotypes and how change has evolved for Black performers.Other important points for this screening: The theater has a bar and people are encouraged to dress to the nines. I'm not sure there's anything too important about this movie from a purely filmic standpoint, but Wikipedia likes to point out the following:
The film is one of two major Hollywood musicals produced in 1943 with primarily African-American casts, the other being MGM's Cabin in the Sky, and is considered a time capsule showcasing some of the top African-American performers of the time, during an era when black actors and singers rarely appeared in lead roles in mainstream Hollywood productions, particularly of the musical genre.Additionally, this is the last time either Fats Waller or Bill "Bojangles" Robinson appear on film. This should be a real treat for music fans, as there's over 20 musical performances in the movie.
Here's more info on the screening and how to get your tickets now:
| Price: | $15 |
| * contact the Venue listed below for ticketing information | |
| Dates and Times: | February 26, 7:30PM-9:30PM |
| Venue: | The Fitzgerald Theater |
| Address: | 10 East Exchange Street |
| City: | Saint Paul |
| State: | MN |
| Zip Code: | 55101 |
| Country: | United States |
| Telephone: | 651-290-1200 |
| Email Address: | fitzgerald@mpr.org |
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