'Groundbreaking documentary' to be screened at Historic Lewiston Opera Hall

The CREATE Project will present the premiere of “Tradition, Trauma, & Tenderness” at the Historic Lewiston Opera Hall, 732 Center St., on Saturday, Nov. 11. There is a $5 admission to watch the 90-minute film, which will screen at 6 p.m. This event is open to the public.

A press release stated, “Western New York residents from diverse cultures and backgrounds have come together to help create this groundbreaking documentary. Illustrated by images, music and reflections, individuals and groups display their cultural heritage in dance, song and artifacts.

“Tradition, Trauma, & Tenderness” was executive produced by Valerie Walawender and co-directed by Walawender and cinematographer Alex Simmons – who was also responsible for primary videography, narration, sound, and editing.

The press release noted, “The documentary explores traditions and the universal experience of trauma felt by people and cultures from across the globe. Everyday moments and heart-warming traditions fly across the screen. Images of natural disasters, abuse, disease, genocide, slavery, poverty and war are also shown.

“A major underlying theme of the film is the idea that trauma is a universal experience. It is important to recognize that everyone is affected by various forms of trauma in their personal or collective history. Local people and contemporary events, as well as people from a wide variety of historical circumstances, are depicted.

“But the story does not stop there.

“Individuals share how their close family connections, community support and traditions help them survive and carry on in a spirit of hope.”

Psychologist Darryl Tonemah, Ph.D. and neuroscientist Audrey Hager, Ph.D., explain “how the passing on of traditions in tender, nurturing environments can contribute to individual healing and the prevention of trauma.”

Walawender will be available an answer questions after the film.

This project was funded by Arts Services Inc. and Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation.

For more information or to see a trailer of the film, visit https://create-project.com/. Questions and comments can be sent to the CREATE Project at [email protected] or by calling 716-680-0266.

More information about the Historic Lewiston Opera Hall can be obtained by calling 716-246-1578.