Movies Under the Stars: Mary Lou Williams: The Lady Who Swings the Band

35 West 134th Street,New York NY 10037

26 August, 2021

Description

A feature documentary on the life and music of this renowned jazz pianist, composer and arranger. Grab a blanket and come enjoy a movie in a neighborhood park or playground! This summer, NYC Parks will host family-friendly movie showings across the five boroughs. Arts, Culture & Fun in partnership with The Charlie Parker Festival will be screening Mary Lou Williams: The Lady Who Swings the Band. During an era when Jazz was the nation's popular music, Mary Lou Williams was one of its greatest innovators. As both a pianist and composer, she was a font of daring and creativity who helped shape the sound of 20th century America. And like the dynamic, turbulent nation in which she lived, Williams seemed to redefine herself with every passing decade. From child prodigy to "Boogie-Woogie Queen" to groundbreaking composer to mentoring some of the greatest musicians of all time, Mary Lou Williams never ceased to astound those who heard her play. But away from the piano, Williams was a woman in a "man's world," a black person in a "whites only" society, an ambitious artist who dared to be different, and who struggled against the imperatives of being a "star." Above all, she did not fit the (still) prevailing notions of where genius comes from or what it looks like. Time and again, she pushed back against a world that said, "You can't" and said, "I can." It nearly cost her everything. -- Please wear a mask if you are unvaccinated or cannot maintain social distance. All individuals should maintain social distancing of six feet during programming, regardless of vaccination status. Wash your hands before attending a program. Stay home if you are sick. Contact (212) 360-1430 or [email protected] for more information regarding accessibility. NYC Parks' Public Programs Recreation Division hosts recreational programs and events for the public. Our mission is to enable all New Yorkers to lead physically active and intellectually stimulating lives through sports, fitness, outdoor adventure, technology, education and the arts.