The Verde Valley Archaeology Center & Museum is proud to launch our first Indigenous Film Festival, in cooperation with the Sedona International Film Festival, on November 3 and 4.
It is the mission of this film festival to break systematic barriers by creating cultural understanding through film. Our vision for the future of cinema is one in which Native American and Indigenous perspectives are respectfully pictured, recognized and valued in a way that promotes authentic identities, economic outcomes, equity and wellbeing for our Indigenous communities.
SATURDAY, NOV. 4 at 4:00 p.m. — Feature film "A LOVE SONG"
Faye (Dale Dickey) is a lone traveler biding her time fishing, birding and stargazing at a rural Colorado campground as she awaits the arrival of Lito (Wes Studi), a figure from her past who is navigating his own tentative and nomadic journey across the rugged West. Like the country music that has traditionally channeled the heartbreak and resilience of Americans in search of themselves and others, A Love Song weaves a lyrical and ultimately joyful refrain out of the transformative act of being alone — and reminds us that love can nourish and mystify at any age.
Preceded by the short film: "Sousa On The Rez"
"Sousa on the Rez: Marching to the Beat of a Different Drum" profiles two contemporary Indian community bands: the Iroquois Indian Band from upstate New York and the Fort Mojave Tribal Band based in Needles, California. The documentary traces the origins of these groups from their founding over 100 years ago and uncovers a secret history of the 20th century when "All Indian Bands" toured the US and abroad.
In the 1800's and 1900's, dozens of Indian bands existed in the United States. Many Indian boarding schools had their own bands, including the band at the Carlisle Industrial School in Pennsylvania. School bands were not the only Native groups performing marches and parade music; many tribal communities organized their own community bands that performed for both Native and non-Native audiences. Professional ensembles toured both the US and abroad – providing employment opportunities for musicians in a time when opportunities for Native people were limited. As march music became less popular, however, many of these groups disbanded.
Today, four multi-generational community-based tribal bands remain in the US, carrying on the rich tradition of Sousa in their communities. In addition to the Iroquois Indian and Fort Mojave bands, the Navajo Nation and Zuni Pueblo host vibrant bands.
Tickets are $12 or $9 for SIFF and VVAC members, as well as members of Federally recognized and State recognized Tribal Nations and/or are affiliated with a Tribal community. VVAC members and Tribal members can receive the discounted price by calling the box office for tickets at (928) 282-1177, or at the box office door, and indicate your membership or affiliation.
