Cincinnati Film Festival, Main Library host premiere film screening | Arts & Culture

CINCINNATI, OH (FOX19) - The Cincinnati Film Festival is premiering "Shining Night: A Portrait of Composer Morten Lauridsen" during the second week of the 2012 World Choir Games at 7 p.m. Monday, July 9, in the atrium at the Reading Garden Lounge of the Main Library, 800 Vine Street.

This screening is presented in partnership with the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, Interkultur, and Song Without Borders.

The film is a documentary about renowned choral music composer Morten Lauridsen who, along with the film’s director/producer Michael Stillwater, will be attending. The film will be followed with a live, post-film Q&A with Lauridsen and Stillwater.

This event is free and open to all ages and will also be simulcast at the 20th Century Theater in Oakley, with the Q&A presented on screen via Skype after the film.

Morten Lauridsen is a celebrated composer and 2007 Medal of Arts recipient. He is the subject of this 75-minute documentary, directed by Michael Stillwater, portraying the composer at his Waldron Island retreat and in rehearsals in California and Scotland.

It includes commentary on the composer by many, including noted conductor Paul Salamunovich and performances by acclaimed choral groups.

"Response to this film has been tremendous. Lauridsen's music is gaining new audiences as a result of the film, named 'a heartening rarity' by the Wall Street Journal and winning Best Documentary at the DC Independent Film Festival. I believe this shows its impact is reaching beyond the traditional classical music audience to people who simply love music, being in nature, or seeking a spiritual perspective on life," said Stillwater.

The Main Library is located at 800 Vine St., downtown Cincinnati. Call 513-369-6900. The 20th Century Theater is located at 3021 Madison Road, Oakley. Call 513-731-8000.