Gullah community screening set Feb. 12; documentary accepted to multiple festivals

Lola Campbell, founder of Binja Cultural Impact Consulting and executive producer of a new Gullah community documentary, previewed the film and announced a community premiere at Historic Mitchellville Freedom Park on Feb. 12 from 6 to 8 p.m.

"To be Gullah means to be part of a unique culture in America," Campbell said, describing the film's theme of resilience and continuity. She said production took place over the past year, with the bulk of principal photography completed in roughly six to seven days of intensive shoots with director Andrew Maguire and a small crew.

Campbell told listeners the project was developed in partnership with the Hilton Head Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and is intended to present the Gullah community's living culture, not only its past. She said the short has been accepted to at least three festivals, with screenings scheduled in Williamsburg (Feb. 19), Washington, D.C. (Feb. 20'21), Oakland (Feb. 21), Atlanta (Feb. 28) and an appearance in London in March.

Campbell said festival rules sometimes limit immediate public streaming but that the team is exploring online screening options that would not conflict with festival agreements. Director Andrew Maguire is expected to attend the Feb. 12 community screening and further discuss production questions with attendees.

Campbell encouraged listeners to attend the community premiere and to check the Chamber website for RSVP and viewing details. For those who cannot attend, she said the film team is working on additional screenings and distribution options pending festival commitments.