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A renowned artist looks back with loving memories on the summer of his defining year when he befriended an elderly, alcoholic yet genius painter who has turned his back not only on art, but on life.
Two award-winning artists, renowned Hollywood writer/director and painter George Gallo (Midnight Run/Bad Boys) and nationally recognized American painter Don Sahli, will host a special benefit screening of Gallo’s critically acclaimed film, "Local Color," at the Vilar Performing Arts Center Saturday, July 31, at 6 p.m.. The special screening, which benefits the Vilar Center, is being held in conjunction with four days of painting and special events surrounding the 23rd annual Beaver Creek Arts Festival.
Inspired by the true story of Gallo’s own apprenticeship as a young artist, “Local Color” is a compelling film that is opening the eyes and hearts of yet another new generation to the value of mentorship and the joy of seeing the beauty in life.
Oscar nominees Armin Mueller-Stahl (“Shine”), Charles Durning (“To Be or Not to Be”/”The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas”) and Diana Scarwid (“Inside Moves”) are teamed with a talent-rich cast that includes Trevor Morgan (“ER”, “The Sixth Sense”), Samantha Mathis, plus veteran actors Ray Liotta and Ron Perlman.
In 1974, in the suburb of Port Chester, New York, the teenager aspirant artist John Talia has a troubled relationship with his homophobic father, who does not understand his talent. While visiting his friend Yammi, John finds that the genius Russian painter, Nicoli Seroff, lives nearby and he decides to pay a visit to his idol.
What John finds is a bitter alcoholic elder who still grieves the loss of his wife Anya many years ago, but he successfully befriends the master. When Nicoli travels to the countryside in Pennsylvania, he invites John to go with him to teach him how to paint.
As a student, John wants to learn all the secrets the master has locked away inside his head and heart. But time has not been kind to the old master and his life and work have lost their meaning. Over the course of the summer, his enthusiasm and innocence rekindle the master’s artistic passion and a tenuous relationship forms between student and master.
Together, they each give one another priceless gifts. The student learns to see the world through the eyes of an artist, while the master remembers how to see past the ugliness in life and once again embrace the beauty.
In addition to the special screening, the evening will also include a pre-show discussion entitled “Inside The Hollywood Machine”, featuring the film’s producer, Jimmy Evangelatos. Evangelatos will share his insights on the current state of the movie industry, while also taking questions from the audience.
Moviegoers will also be treated to a special video short entitled “The Legacy of the Russian Masters”, with remarks by artist Don Sahli. Writer-director George Gallo will then introduce the film.
Tickets for “Local Color” are priced at $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. A special $28 ticket is also available, which includes preferred seating and admission to the Osprey at Beaver Creek Russian Masterworks Backstage Reception following the film.
In addition to sampling appetizers, courtesy of Osprey Chef Michael Wilganowski, the reception will include the viewing of an entire collection of historic Russian artwork. Many of these major Soviet Era and contemporary masterpieces, previously only displayed in museums, have never been seen outside of Russia. Beaver Creek Fine Arts Gallery owner Jim Tylich will share an overview of the distinctive technique of these Russian masters.
Tickets are available by phone at 888.920.ARTS(2787) or in person at the Vilar Center box office in Beaver Creek. Tickets are also available online 24 hours a day (additional online fees apply) at www.vilarpac.org and the box office is open Monday through Friday from 11am-5pm MST, with additional hours on performance days.
The Vilar Performing Arts Center is a project of the Vail Valley Foundation. For more information on the Vail Valley Foundation, visit vvf.org.
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IF YOU GO:
What: Local Color
When: Saturday, July 31, 2010 at 6 p.m.
Where: Vilar Performing Arts Center
Cost: $28/$12a/$10s
More information: 888-920-2787 or www.vilarpac.org
Media Contact:
For press inquiries please contact Sarah Dixon with the Vail Valley Foundation at 970-748-5973.
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