Sharing stories, building community
Story House Ithaca brings people together to share, study, create, and enjoy stories in all their forms. Story House is a project of the nonprofit Center for Transformative Action. Learn more.
Let's create a Black film fest!
Marvel’s Black Panther got lots of hype when it came out. Critics praised it for its message of Black empowerment. Kenneth McLaurin wasn't impressed.
He came to Story House with a proposal for a "Better than Black Panther Film Festival." It would feature authentic Black voices and celebrate the rich history of films written by, directed by, and starring Black American and African people. He'd choose the movies and Cinemapolis would screen them. Local Black caterers would provide food. We'd have lively discussions afterward.
It didn't take much to convince us. Tompkins Community Bank and the Community Arts Partnership provided some seed money. Cinemapolis is on board, too. Now we need YOU to make it happen!
What an evening!
Thanks to everyone who came to or participated in "Breaking Our Silence: A Performance and Celebration" at Ithaca High School's Kulp Auditorium on May 21!
We were blown away by the grace, candor, and talent of all the performers, from the 60-strong Ithaca High School Chorale and the actors from Civic Ensemble's ReEntry Theatre Program to the poets, dancers, movers, and storytellers who took the stage. The incomparable Rachel Lampert made sure everything flowed beautifully.
The event was the grand finale of "Breaking Our Silence: Storytelling for Mental Health," our series of workshops, screenings, discussions, and other activities in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. A thousand thanks to our sponsors, The Sophie Fund, the National Alliance on Mental Illness Finger Lakes, and the Community Arts Partnership of Tompkins County.
What's your story?
Do you have an idea for a Story House program? Are you looking for someone to work with? Is there something you'd like us to do? Fill out the form on our Contact page!