Lunafest

by Sarah Teach

The modern woman is faced with challenges unique to her gender. Fortunately, women don’t face these adversities alone but alongside a variety of advocates. The Theatre Workshop of Nantucket is one such supporter. TWN not only has a passion for drama but also an appreciation for the contributions of women.

On Saturday, May 28, TWN will host LUNAFEST, an international women's film festival event to benefit Breast Cancer Fund and our beloved local theatre. This event features ten short films written, produced, and directed by women for the entertainment and viewing pleasure of our community. The thoughtfully selected set of films ranges from live action to cartoon to claymation to documentary; covering the issues of daily life to the extraordinary; the comic to the dramatic; the poignant and the inspiring.  LUNAFEST is about celebrating the most exceptional films; the untold stories. Those working in the heart of LUNA will tell you that they strive to reveal “…that hidden gem that is simply too good and too creative to be accepted by mainstream Hollywood.”  TWN launched Nantucket’s own LUNAFEST last year at the suggestion of TWN Board Member Lisa Soeder. “As a group of actors, directors, board members, and everyone else, many of us have been touched by breast cancer. The idea of hosting LUNA appealed to us all,” says TWN Executive Director Gabrielle Gould. “LUNA, albeit film and not theater, met our mission and our commitment to the arts.”

Get ready to enjoy hors d'oeuvres, a cash wine bar, and live music by Molly Glazer and Cherie Cseley.  Guest speaker Wendy Schmidt will offer her perspective on being a woman in the business of supporting the Nantucket community.  Even the door prizes are going to be fabulous!  (Think Hermes Pink Kelly bags, $300 gift cards to glamorous on-island spots, and some randomly given surprise goodies.)  Topping it all off will be the silent auction, which brings you the chance to bask in a luxurious weekend getaway, a “mommy’s day out” package, a Father’s Day dream package, stunning jewelry, a deluxe Wine Festival package, lavish shopping sprees, teak deck furniture with landscaping included, home spice consultation and much, much more!

Also scheduled is a very special tribute to the late Mimi Beman, a strong and vibrant Nantucket woman who perfectly embodied the spirit of LUNA’s mission and beyond.  A little over a year ago, Mimi passed away from breast cancer complications and Nantucket has sorely missed her.  An islander in the most heartfelt sense, Mimi was passionately dedicated to Nantucket, and used her broad influence to enrich others’ lives in any way she could.  Mimi has often been referred to as a “life force” on Nantucket, and she fostered in folks young and old a love for books, reading, and writing.  For anyone not lucky enough to have known Mimi, LUNA will give you a taste of this incredible individual when authors Nancy Thayer and Elin Hilderbrand offer their tributes to her.  For those who do remember Mimi, this event is definitely not to be missed. Prepare to be inspired by the legacy of an extraordinary Nantucket woman.

To experience this night of innovative film, meaningful tribute, delectable food and delightful drink, head to the ‘Sconset Casino at 7 p.m. on May 28, and plan to stay ‘til 10 p.m.  Men are absolutely welcome to attend this evening of celebrating women, appreciating their struggles and triumphs, and ultimately coming together as humankind.  For more information on the films and the involved organizations, visit www.LUNAFEST.org.  Tickets are just $25 and can be easily purchased at www.TheatreWorkshop.com.