Little Falls has always been known for having some of the most unique and interesting people, and Stephanie Sheppard is one of them. Fifty-two years ago, she and her brother wrote six songs for the legendary Jazz personality Nina Simone to perform. Unfortunately, Simone died before any of them were recorded. Longtail Films, out of England, found out about the story and made a documentary about the lost music. They also found just the perfect performer to bring them to light.
In the film, superstar Emeli Sande sets out on an emotional journey to bring to life that set of songs written for Nina Simone but never performed. Forgotten for all these years, these songs are beautiful and illuminate Nina Simone’s world. They are messages from the past.
The film has never been shown in the United States. But, on March 18th at Rock City Centre in Little Falls at 6 pm, you’ll get to watch the movie, hear from the film’s creators in England with a pre-recorded interview, and then get Stephanie’s perspective as she fills in the details about being at the center of such an important historical work.
“The film took two years from the idea to the filming this past November,” stated Sheppard. “That’s how the movie came about.”
After the screening, there will be wine, cheese, and live music with Oscar Stivala and his Jazz Trio. Oscar has created an 18×24 oil on canvas painting of Nina Simone to be auctioned off at the event to raise money for The Creative Outpost.
If you’d like to watch the trailer for the film, register for the free event, or purchase raffle tickets, please visit https://creativeoutpost.org/event/film-screening-community-presentation-nina-simone-the-lost-album/.
The film will also be live-streamed, but you must register for a unique viewing link.
About The Creative Outpost, Inc.
The Creative Outpost is a non-profit 501c3 organization in Little Falls focused on creative content, film, and media education. It is dedicated to teaching the art and craft of filmmaking and media development. It also focuses on establishing the Mohawk Valley as an international destination for media leadership and production. More information can be found at creativeoutpost.org
