Arkansas is set to shine a spotlight on its homegrown talent as local film and music organizations collaborate on two upcoming events. These events aim to celebrate the state’s creative community and bolster its tourism opportunities. The first event, scheduled for Saturday, May 30, at 1 p.m., will take place during the Eureka Springs Blues Party. It will feature a screening of ‘Arkansas Rock and Soul Royalty, The Cate Brothers Band,’ a documentary directed by Benjamin Meade. This film, which was originally showcased at the 2021 Fort Smith International Film Festival, chronicles the five-decade musical journey of the Cate Brothers, from their early days in Fayetteville clubs to international tours and performances with legends like Ray Charles and Levon Helm.
Strengthening Creative Tourism
Dr. Brandon Chase Goldsmith, executive director of the Fort Smith International Film Festival, emphasizes the intrinsic connection between film and music. ‘Imagine a movie without music or a major song being released without a music video. The two industries are intrinsically complementary,’ he states. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to enhance Arkansas’s appeal as a creative tourism destination, drawing inspiration from similar initiatives in other states.
The second event will occur on Wednesday, June 3, at 6 p.m. at White Water Tavern in Little Rock. This gathering will be a collaborative networking event hosted by the Arkansas Cinema Society Filmmaker Forum and Arkansas Music Experience. Robert Locke of Arkansas Music Experience highlights the commercial synergy between film and music, noting that each can amplify the other’s value.
Organizers hope that these partnerships will continue to grow, supporting local artists and showcasing Arkansas’s vibrant creative culture. By bringing together the worlds of film and music, these events not only celebrate the state’s talent but also aim to position Arkansas as a hub for creative tourism.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
