Fellini in Danville?!

I must profess that neither the town where I live (Reidsville, NC) or the town where I work (Danville, Va)_ a city that is only 25 miles away, are centers of cultural activity. Though, there are times when I have been surprised. A few weeks ago, poet Nikki Giovanni spoke at Averret University in Danville. And, last night, the historic North Theatre showed "Satyricon," the third in a series of Frederico Fellini films! I am still in a state of shock over this. It was an experience very much like all of Fellini's film, a surreal dream which doesn't seem to be really happening. Jerry Meadors, an indy film producer, manages the North Theatre, which has been fully restored in recent years. Next week, Jean Renoir's 1952 classic "The Golden Coach" will be screened at the cinema at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Feb. 27. According to "Leonard Maltin's Movie Guide," the film was a flop upon its first release. And, now it will be showing in Danville! Amazing!

If anyone wants more info on the screenings_ there will be a total of six more, feel free to Google the North Theatre in Danville, Va. There will also be a stage rendition of "the Best Little Whorehouse in Texas" at the North Theatre in March. Assuredly, the production will be better than the 1982 Burt Reynolds- Dolly Parton film which Maltin gave a mere two stars. Having seen the film when I was a teenager, I concur that it is indeed a film which merits a "thumbs down."