Assumptions, stereotypes, and mislabels are some of the issues the 12th Sprout Film Festival tackles in its 10 selected short films starting at noon on March 31, in the Robert Boland Theater at Berkshire Community College in Pittsfield, Mass. Presented by the Berkshire County Arc Down Syndrome Family Group, the 90-minute show will explore the challenges, victories, and emotions experienced by individuals with various disabilities.
Open to the public, some 200 families are expected to watch the selected films, which include titles: “Discovering the Truth,” “Floating Boy,” “Being Seen,” and “JMaxx.”
‘In Your Dreams Boy’ looks at the perils of dating with and without an intellectual disability. Bobby and his brother Luke are looking for love, but Luke doesn’t think Bobby is ready for the world of heartbreak.
“Floating Boy” tells the story of a young man who wants to fly while his father—wanting the best for his son—prefers him to stay grounded. The film explores the age-old conflict between the loving father wanting to keep his boy close and an anxious son longing for the sky.
“Being Seen” shatters preconceptions of the disabled with its candid clips, while the remainder of the films also serve to break down long-held presumptions for people with disabilities.
A free catered reception will follow the films and also feature a photo and art exhibit from local artists with disabilities. Tickets are $5 per person and can be purchased at the door or online at https://conta.cc/2GllxB2 . For more information contact Nancy Willey at 413-464-7262, ext. 13 or nwilley@bcarc.org.
All proceeds will support children, adults and families of Berkshire County residents with and impacted by Down syndrome. The Down Syndrome Family Group currently supports 40 Berkshire County residents with Down Syndrome and their families.
Founded in 2003, the New York City-based non-profit organization Sprout is dedicated to bringing innovative programming to individuals with I/DD. The Sprout Film Festival seeks to inspire audiences, promote inclusion and support transformative filmmaking as an integral part of social change. The films focus exclusively on the diverse lives and creativity of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), and make the invisible visible. Some 200 people attended last year’s festival.
About BCArc Down Syndrome Family Group
The Berkshire County Arc Down Syndrome Family Group is comprised of families throughout Berkshire County, working to advocate for and educate the public about Down syndrome and people with disabilities. Members of the group offer support to one another by helping families access resources through local and state agencies, hosting an annual Buddy Walk of the Berkshires, sponsoring speakers on all areas of Down syndrome and by socializing at fun family events. For more information about the Down Syndrome Family Group, visit https://bcarc.org/down-syndrome-family-group/about-dsfg/.
