Social on the Seacoast: A Weekend of Firsts at Telluride by the Sea

As always, the films this year represent a spectrum of new work from an international array of filmmakers—what The Music Hall’s Programming Coordinator Chris Curtis describes as “labors of love by the most excellent practitioners of the form. I consider them all a do-not-miss!” Typically, many of the films go on to receive critical acclaim. (Remember The King’s Speech, Oscar winner for Best Picture? Telluride audiences saw it first). The weekend begins Friday with a 7pm showing at the Historic Theater: click here for a complete schedule .

But wait, there’s more! The Music Hall’s Writers on a New England Stage fans should take note: Midnight’s Children, Friday night’s opening film, was self-adapted by literary giant Salman Rushdie, who will be taking the stage of the Historic Theater on October 10.

Rust and Bone featuring academy-winning Marion Cotillard (pictured above); A Royal Affair featuring critically acclaimed actor Mads Mikkelsen; and Corman’s Word: Exploits of a Hollywood Rebel, a documentary about the legendary Roger Corman.

A fabulous benefit for passholders-only are three special showings of Film Noir Past Gems in the Loft (Sat. 10:30am, & 3:45pm, Sun 4:00pm. Passholders only, seating not guaranteed). In keeping with Noir’s spirit of mystery, the titles will not be announced until show time. Arrive early to get your seat and hear host Kent Stephens reveal and introduce the film.

Last but not least, Telluride patrons will be the first to experience the unveiling of the Music Hall’s restored upper lobby in the Historic Theater—an elegant, light-filled space with a new granite-topped bar, various new amenities, and additional gathering space for people to mingle.

Patron and Weekend passes and a limited number of individual tickets are still available: go here for more information.

This year more than ever, the Telluride by the Sea weekend is a labor of love—by the festival curators; the filmmakers; the generous donors, talented team of architects and craftsmen, and hard-working Music Hall board of directors and facilities committee who made the upper lobby renovation possible; and a dedicated staff who pull all the aspects of this extraordinary weekend together. I for one can’t wait to experience it!