I’ve Known Rivers Film Festival 2023

Opening Night Gala on December 3rd

Topanga Canyon, CA – The 12th Annual “I’ve Known Rivers Film Festival” is just around the corner, set to take place from December 3 to December 9, 2023. This year, the festival opens with “City of A Million Dreams: Parading For The Dead In New Orleans,” a documentary directed by New Orleans-based filmmaker Jason Berry, exploring the tradition of jazz funerals in the city.

Organized by FA-MLI, Inc., a non-profit dedicated to arts, mentoring, leadership, and innovation, the festival aims to offer six days of cultural experiences. The festival’s Opening Night Gala, on December 3rd, 2023, at the Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum in Topanga Canyon, will feature the screening of “City of A Million Dreams.” An interview with Jason Berry and jazz musician Dr. Michael White will follow, along with a live performance by “Everything with Soul.”

Attendees can savor New Orleans cuisine, including Gumbo, Jambalaya, and Seafood Etouffée, and enjoy a fashion segment and a photo gathering celebrating New Orleans culture.

Tickets for the Opening Night Gala are priced at $65 for general admission and $100 for VIP access, with proceeds supporting FA-MLI, Inc.’s programs, including arts, culture, education, and social justice initiatives. Tickets can be purchased online or through Ellington Baldwin Cooke at 323-245-2133 or famlisoul@gmail.com.

“City of A Million Dreams” delves into the heart of New Orleans, focusing on the tradition of jazz funerals—an emotional display combining grief and joy, weeping and dancing. The film follows two central figures, Deb “Big Red Cotton,” a blogger and videographer, and Dr. Michael White, a professor and jazz composer. Their quests intertwine, offering a deep dive into New Orleans’ soul and history. As the festival approaches, it promises to be a celebration of culture and storytelling. “City of A Million Dreams” sets the stage for a cinematic journey into the essence of New Orleans. Mark your calendars for December 3rd, 2023, as the 12th Annual I’ve Known Rivers Film Festival begins, celebrating New Orleans culture through the lens of this captivating documentary.

Directions

1419 N Topanga Canyon Blvd, Topanga, CA 90290

From the 10
Take the 10 West to Pacific Coast Hwy, and continue north approximately 6 miles. Turn right on Topanga Cyn Blvd and continue approximately 6 miles. Theatricum Botanicum will be on your left.

From the 101
Take the Topanga Cyn Blvd exit S. Continue South on Topanga Cyn Blvd for approximately 5.5 miles. Theatricum Botanicum will be on your right.

Parking
Parking is available for free along Topanga Cyn Blvd or in the Theatricum lot for $10 per car. This fee is waived for guests with handicap placards.