Shea Presents: Cinemastorm with Special Guest John Sayles!!

Sunday, April 30, 2023, 7:30 pm until 10:00 pm
Critically Acclaimed writer and director John Sayles joins Director Robert D. Kryzkowski and NEPM Personality/Shea President for a special Q and A and trivia! FREE!

BROTHER FROM ANOTHER PLANET (1984) - John Sayles’ fascinating sci-fi drama tells the story of an alien (Joe Morton) who crash-lands on Earth and finds himself hiding in the heart of Harlem. Sayles deftly explores complex themes of race, identity, and immigration through the eyes of his otherworldly hero. Morton's nuanced performance captures the alien's struggle to understand the complexities of human society, and his silent expressions speak volumes about injustice, compassion, and feeling ‘other’. With its poignant social commentary, sly comedy, strong performances, and imaginative storytelling, "Brother From Another Planet" is a masterpiece of independent filmmaking.

ALLIGATOR (1980) - Written by John Sayles and directed by Lewis Teague, “Alligator” is a sneakily subversive horror film that follows a baby alligator that is flushed down the toilet and grows up to be a massive, man-eating monster. With a wry undercurrent of social commentary, the alligator eats its way through the Chicago class system—from the sewers, to the streets, to the criminally wealthy. The film is also a slick police procedural with Robert Forster delivering a standout performance as the determined detective who always gets his gator. With impressive practical effects, biting wit, and a thrilling plot, Alligator soars above and beyond its gonzo trappings to become a cult classic of the highest order.

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Exciting News for A Happening V: The Bestiary

Cloudgaze and Eggtooth Productions are thrilled to announce that we have received generous grants from the Mass Cultural Council as well as the Community Foundation of Western MA to support our 2025 Immersive Arts Festival, “A Happening V: The Bestiary.”

This festival will transform the Shea Theater into an exploration of theme, hosting installations, music, theatrical performances, and movement pieces, featuring the collective contributions of over 50 local artists. Audiences will experience otherworldly environments and narratives inspired by Aesop's Fables, George Orwell's Animal Farm, newly imagined cautionary tales, and creature myths of all origins.

Thanks to the Mass Cultural Council for their vital support this year.We'd also like to thank the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts for their support in the form of a Flexible Funding grant. We couldn't do this work without you!