TUNKHANNOCK — A slate of 22 of the best foreign, independent and art films released over the past few months are headed to the Dietrich Theater for Winter Fest 2020 Feb. 21 through March 12. In addition to showing 22 films in 21 days, the Dietrich has added a couple of special events to the film lineup to enrich festival-goers’ experience.
The day after the festival kicks off with its Opening Night Gala on Feb. 21, the Dietrich Theater and VIA Public Media are partnering for a special showing of “Harriet” on Saturday, Feb. 22 at 11:45 a.m. Nominated for two Academy Awards, “Harriet” stars Cynthia Erivo, Leslie Odom Jr., and Joe Alwyn. The film is based on the thrilling and inspirational life of iconic American freedom fighter Harriet Tubman, and shows her escape from slavery and transformation into one of America’s greatest heroes.
In addition to the film’s showing, attendees will have an opportunity to learn about the Waverly Community House’s Destination Freedom Underground Railroad Tour with tour guide EJ Murphy. He will also conduct a Q & A after the movie. VIA’s Chris Norton will also be there to co-host the event, and all those who attend will have the opportunity to win a prize giveaway.
Then on the following Saturday, Feb. 29 at noon, the Dietrich Theater will host another special movie event for the documentary sensation “Fantastic Fungi.” Visually stunning, this film will take us on an immersive journey through time and scale into the magical earth beneath our feet, an underground network that can heal and save the planet. Through the eyes of renowned scientists and mycologists, we become aware of the beauty, intelligence and solutions the fungi kingdom has to offer in response to some of our most pressing medical, therapeutic and environmental challenges. Special Guests David Wasilewski, of the Wyoming Valley Mushrooms Club, and Stacey Kalechitz, of the Susquehanna Valley Mycological Society, will be on hand to share information about their organizations and about fungi in our region. In addition, mushroom grower Tim Owen, of Growen Food, will give a mushroom growing demonstration.
Admission to these special events is the cost of a movie ticket, $8.50 each. For more information about either of these events, call the Dietrich at 570-836-1022 ext. 3. Tickets are available at DietrichTheater.com or at the door as long as supplies last.
In addition to these festival events, the Dietrich will host a Post Film Festival Discussion on Friday, March 13 at 1 p.m. at the Dietrich. This discussion will give film-goers an opportunity to discuss the films they saw in festival with other patrons and to ask questions. The discussion will be facilitated by Ronnie Harvey, admission is free and there is no need to register.
