“Ain’t No Back to a Merry-Go-Round” Documentary to Screen in Manlius, NY, Alongside Martin Luther King Jr. Day Observances
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A powerful new documentary exploring a largely unknown chapter in the civil rights movement will be shown at Manlius Cinema on January 18 adn 19, offering a timely reflection during Martin Luther King Jr. Day.the screenings will be followed by discussions with the film’s director, Ilana Trachtman.
Unearthing a Forgotten Protest
“Ain’t No Back to a Merry-Go-Round” reveals the story of what is considered the first organized interracial civil rights protest in the United States, which took place in 1960 at Glen Echo Amusement Park in Maryland. The film recounts how the arrests of five Black college students for simply sitting on a whites-only carousel sparked a larger movement, drawing in white community members to challenge segregation.
The 90-minute documentary utilizes never-before-seen archival footage and interviews with surviving protesters, offering a firsthand account of the risks and rewards of activism. renowned actors Jeffrey Wright, Lee Grant, and Mandy Patinkin lend their voices to the narration, further amplifying the film’s impact.
A Decade-Long Pursuit of Past Truth
For director Ilana Trachtman,an Emmy Award-winning filmmaker with a distinguished career spanning decades – including work with PBS,Revelation,and sundance – bringing this story to light was a deeply personal undertaking. “I’m honored to restore a lost chapter with ‘Ain’t No Back to a Merry-Go-Round,'” trachtman said. “It’s astounding, but this unknown 65-year-old protest offers a playbook for triumph over attacks on democracy and human rights.”
Trachtman’s previous work has explored themes of social justice and marginalized communities,including the legacy of slavery in Latin America and the experiences of LGBTQ+ activists. This latest project, described as a “10-year labor of love,” demonstrates her continued commitment to uncovering untold stories.
Critical Acclaim and Widespread Recognition
“Ain’t No Back to a Merry-Go-Round” has garnered significant praise, screening at over 35 festivals and in more than 30 states. The film has enjoyed sold-out premieres in major cities like Los Angeles, Philadelphia, boston, and St. Louis, and ran for nine consecutive weeks in theaters in the Washington, D.C. area.
The documentary’s accolades include the Best Documentary Feature award at both the DC Black Film Festival and the San Antonio Black Film festival, and also the Richmond International film Festival’s Grand Jury’s Award for Outstanding Merit for Community and Civic Action, and the Juror’s Building Bridges Award at the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival.
Screening Details and Ticket Information
Manlius Cinema will host screenings of “Ain’t No Back to a Merry-Go-Round” on Sunday, January 18, at 7:00 p.m. and monday, January 19, at 6:45 p.m. at the theater located at 135 E.Seneca St. in the village of Manlius. Tickets are available for purchase on the theater’s website.
This screening offers a unique chance to engage with a powerful story of courage and collaboration, reminding audiences that even seemingly small acts of defiance can spark significant change.
Civil Rights Movement – A struggle for social justice that took place primarily in the 1950s and 1960s for Black Americans to gain equal rights under the law.
Civil Rights Protest – A public presentation of opposition to unjust laws or policies, often involving acts of nonviolent resistance.
Segregation – The enforced separation of different racial groups in a country,community,or establishment.
Activism – The practice of engaging in political or social action to bring about change.
Emmy Award – A prestigious award recognizing excellence in television programming.
Community and Civic Action – Efforts undertaken by individuals or groups to address issues of public concern and improve the well-being of their communities.
