This event features a double screening of "Porgy and Bess in Wien" and "Mazurka." "Porgy and Bess in Wien" is a world preservation premiere of a 1953 film produced by the United States Information Service, documenting the cultural diplomacy efforts of the US State Department during the Cold War. "Mazurka" is a 1935 German film directed by Willi Forst, presented as a world restoration premiere, showcasing a melodrama that achieved international success. The screening on Monday, January 19, will be introduced by Tim Lanza.

Porgy and Bess in Wien & Mazurka with Tim Lanza (Introducer)

The double feature includes "Porgy and Bess in Wien," a virtually unknown short film from 1953 documenting the Everyman Opera Company's "Porgy and Bess" tour, featuring Leontyne Price, William Warfield, and Cab Calloway. This film highlights a significant cultural diplomacy effort during the Cold War. Also featured is the 1935 German film "Mazurka," directed by Willi Forst and starring Pola Negri, presented in a world restoration premiere. This melodrama was an international success during the Nazi era and was later remade in Hollywood.