newportFILM will bring together live music and short documentary films for Wild Solstice, a midwinter gathering at the Jane Pickens Theater on Dec. 21.
The event, which begins at 4 p.m., features a performance by Grammy-winning musician and filmmaker Todd Hannigan followed by five short documentaries exploring themes of resilience and connection to nature.
Two Rhode Island filmmakers are highlighted in the program: Corinna Halloran, co-director of “Dear Superhero,” and Kelly L. Riley, director and producer of “Tuckerman’s Rock.”
“Tuckerman’s Rock” tells the story of surfer and meditation teacher Damian Ewens, who seeks to reconnect with the ocean after a tragic drowning accident by attempting to walk a rock across the bottom of Easton’s Bay.
Other films in the lineup include “Between Waves,” a portrait of professional offshore sailor and double Olympian Francesca Clapcich; “Farm to Sea,” which follows organic farmer Steve Sprinkle in California’s Ventura River watershed; and “Destined to be Queen,” a documentary about young Latina boxer Brianna Alers training to make the U.S. Junior Olympic team. “Destined to be Queen” premiered at DOC NYC and features cinematography by newportFILM 2023 Lab Fellow Jonathas Nazareth.
The event is co-presented with 11th Hour Racing, with Latitude Yacht Brokerage as supporting sponsor. Wild Solstice will serve as the finale to newportFILM’s 15th anniversary year.
Tickets are $15 and available at newportfilm.com.
