The second annual Virginia Black Film Festival, which opens Thursday in Hampton, includes more than 50 movies and documentaries, conversations about filmmaking and the business, and literal “hands-on” workshops.
The festival opens with a Juneteenth Beach Party at the Paradise Ocean Club and a concert at Fort Monroe on Thursday. A Black business expo will run on Saturday and Sunday at The American Theatre.
The screenings, which will run Friday through Sunday, include comedies, holiday movies and documentaries such as “33 Black Frog: An American Story,” about one of the first African American men to join the Navy’s Underwater Demolition Team, a predecessor of the SEALs.
Screenings will be held at three locations: The American Theatre, 125 E. Mellon St. and Hampton University’s student union and Ogden Hall. The campus main gate is at the corner of Tyler and East Queen Streets.
Norfolk native Tim Reid, a producer and actor known for his work in the TV series “Sister, Sister” and “WKRP in Cincinnati,” is one of three honorees who will be recognized at a Charity Awards Gala Sunday at The American Theatre. Two other honorees are Clifton Powell, a prolific actor and director whose work includes the movie “Ray” and producer BK Fulton, a Hampton native, who works in film and stage.
Ticket prices start at $30 with packages ranging from $75 for a day to $250 for a weekend pass. A three-hour stage combat course is $100.
Visit virginiablackfilmfestival.com for tickets and information.
