Noted Filmmaker and Producer to Screen ‘Honeydripper’ at Bama Theatre Feb. 4

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Distinguished filmmaker John Sayles and producer Maggie Renzi are screening the West Alabama premiere of their award-winning film “Honeydripper” at the Bama Theatre Monday, Feb 4 at 7:30 p.m., sponsored in part by The University of Alabama College of Communication and Information Sciences.

“Honeydripper” received the 2007 Best Screenplay Award at the San Sebastián International Film Festival. The film is set during the 1950s rural blues scene in the fictional town of Harmony, Ala. The story depicts a second chance for an aging bluesman, a kickoff to a young guitarist’s career and the rise of rock ‘n roll.

Doors open to the public at 6 p.m. for a reception with live music featuring Tuscaloosa-based veteran keyboard player Henderson Huggins and young Birmingham-based drummer Stephan Hundley, both of whom appear in the film. They will be joined by local blues musicians Willie King and Carroline Shines.

Immediately following the screening, there will be a question and answer session with Sayles, Renzi, and Alabama Blues Project executive director Debbie Bond.

For the premiere, ticket prices are $6 for students, $8 for Tuscaloosa Art’s Council members and Friends of the Alabama Blues Project and $10 for general admission.

“Honeydripper” is being presented by the Arts & Humanities Council and the Alabama Blues Project, with support from the UA College of Communication and Information Sciences.

The College of C&IS at The University of Alabama is among the largest and most prestigious communication colleges in the nation. C&IS consistently is ranked among the top 10 in number of doctoral degrees awarded and in many of its research programs. C&IS graduates have won four of the six Pulitzer Prizes awarded to UA alumni, and the forensics and debate squad, housed within the College, has garnered 16 national championships.