Film Festival

4th Annual Shirley Film Fest

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This year’s feature documentary is the newly released, critically acclaimed WBCN and the American Revolution , which tells the story of how a Boston rock radio station helped ignite the cultural and political revolution of the late 1960s and beyond, becoming both participant and platform for the anti-war movement, civil rights, women’s and LGBTQ rights, and the rise of countercultural media. Featuring members of the legendary WBCN airstaff, along with rare early radio appearances by David Bowie, Lou Reed, Jane Fonda, Abbie Hoffman, Jerry Garcia, Bruce Springsteen, and Patti Smith.

We’re also excited to present The Spirit of Shirley Awards. Created to celebrate the heart of our community, this segment will highlight short films that capture the people, places, traditions, and moments that make Shirley, and our surrounding region, such a special place to call home.

In addition, the festival will feature a selection of independent short films , many of which are directed by incredibly talented film makers in and around New England. Audience members are asked to watch and submit their votes for the People’s Choice Award ! A beloved tradition of the festival is our silent film screening , and this year’s pick is the classic

Go West (1925), starring Buster Keaton who plays an unemployed and down-on-his-luck drifter who hops a freight train heading west to find his fortune. Pianist Tag Vennard will return to accompany the film on the Meeting House baby grand.

Shirley Film Festival returns on Saturday, November 7 th at the Shirley Meeting House. Screenings run from noon to 9 PM . Light refreshments will be available for purchase throughout the day.

Whether you’re a film enthusiast or simply curious, Shirley Film Fest offers a mix of heart, creativity, and conversation, right here in our own backyard.

Full Schedule online at www.shirleymeetinghouse.org

Keepers of the Flight

admin Festivals, Film Festival, Nancy Beaudette, Video Release

Filmmaker and songwriter Nancy Beaudette has unveiled her new short documentary, Keepers of the Flight, a vivid and immersive look into the remarkable world of honey bees. Filmed while wearing a full beekeeper’s suit, Beaudette brought her camera along side an active hive, capturing rare close-up footage of the colony’s rhythm, resilience, and extraordinary cooperation. The film highlights the essential work of The Bee Lady, Lisa Gledhill, and her efforts to help hive owners maintain thriving colonies. Honey bees play vital role in sustaining our ecosystems. Keepers of the Flight offers audiences a fascinating, behind-the-veil glimpse into a world few ever see, one humming with purpose, beauty, and life.

Keepers of the Flight was an Official Selection at the 2025 Shirley Film Fest.

Shirley Film Festival

admin Film Festival

There’s something special about a small community film festival. Events like Shirley Film Fest bring people together to laugh, reflect, and see the world through new eyes. Across the country, local film festivals have become lively hubs for artistic expression and storytelling, shining a light on important issues through powerful documentaries and inspiring independent films.

This year’s feature documentary is the newly released, critically acclaimed The Librarians, which explores the growing challenges of book banning in libraries across the country. Following the screening, there will be a Q&A with librarians Debra Roy (Shirley) and Luke Kirkland (Ayer), who will share insight into the challenges facing our local libraries today.

We’re also excited to present Spacewoman, a fascinating documentary about astronaut Eileen Collins, the first woman to pilot and command a U.S. space shuttle. The film highlights her groundbreaking career and personal journey through the stars.

A beloved tradition of the festival is our silent film screening, and this year’s pick is the classic Safety Last (1923), starring Harold Lloyd. This comedy follows an ambitious young man whose plan to impress his sweetheart leads to a thrilling skyscraper climb—culminating in the unforgettable scene of him dangling from a giant clock! Pianist Tag Vennard will return to accompany the film on the Meeting House baby grand.

In addition, the festival will feature a selection of independent short films. At the evening session, two filmmakers will be on hand to introduce their work, adding a special behind-the-scenes touch.

Shirley Film Festival returns on Saturday, November 1st at the Shirley Meeting House. Screenings run from noon to 9 PM, and the Fab 5 food truck will be on site serving delicious food and refreshments throughout the day.

Whether you’re a film enthusiast or simply curious, Shirley Film Fest offers a mix of heart, creativity, and conversation—right here in our own backyard.

Full Schedule available at Shirley Meeting House.

Shirley Film Fest 2024

admin Film Festival

This community film festival at the Shirley Center Meeting House in central Massachusetts is a celebration of creativity, storytelling, art and music. We are delighted that this unique venue now offers an opportunity to enjoy and support both local and international film making.

Festival Producer, Nancy Beaudette, perhaps best know as a songwriter and performing artist, is also an accredited TV show producer. “StudioX-Pose Arts and Music” a series created and produced by Nancy ran throughout Ontario, Canada for three years, winning the “Cogeco Star Award – Entertainment Show of the Year” in its inaugural season. She also co-hosted the nationally broadcast show, “In Good Faith” for two years in Ottawa, Canada, with A-Channel Media.  Nancy’s background in media production and community engagement drives her mission to connect diverse voices and audiences. Her enthusiasm for showcasing innovative work has made the festival a beloved event in the region, celebrating both emerging talent and established artists in the film industry.

For the full festival schedule visit The Shirley Meeting House.

 

Shirley Film Fest is Sponsored by

Shirley Film Fest

admin Concert Announcement, Film Festival, Nancy Beaudette

I’ve produced many events through the years, but a film festival is a first. Community oriented events appeal to me. There’s a fun factor – albeit some seriousness is getting the right programming – in creating a new experience and opportunity that wasn’t previously available.

What started out as a simple request to be part of the Shirley Meeting House Committee has evolved into, once again, being a community producer: a person that makes something grow. I hope it has wings.

Have a look at our schedule and come if you can – for all or part.

Nancy