The Odeon Theater is proud to present the world premiere of the short film, Bean’s Booth, written and directed by Austin-based writer, photographer and filmmaker Dennis Fagan. The film is set in a classic movie theater, much like the Odeon, and exterior scenes for the movie were shot outside the theater right here in Mason.
The movie premiere is part of a special evening filled with Zydeco music, a genre featured in the film, which blends blues, rhythm and blues, and music indigenous to the Louisiana Creoles as well as Native American people of Louisiana. Although it is distinct in origin from the Cajun music of Louisiana, the two forms influenced each other, forming a complex of genres native to the region.
Short Film World Premiere
Bean’s Booth is a short film about a young Black projectionist in a small East Texas cinema back in the 1970s. Bean unexpectedly meets a travelling Zydeco family as they perform in his theater and finds his life changing almost immediately.
Dennis has won national and international awards in the fields of writing, fine art and commercial photography. His work is included in many permanent collections, including The Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, The Houston Museum of Fine Arts, The Harry Ransom Center, The Wittliff Collection and The Polaroid Collection.
Joining Dennis at the film premiere is Craig Toungate, who composed the film’s music, and Bobbie Grace, who plays the role of Roz, the town’s Deputy Sheriff. Bobbie is an Austin-based film and TV actress, who has been honored by the Los Angeles Film Review with a “Best Principal Actress Award.” Dennis and Bobbie will share their experiences making the film and will welcome questions from the audience.
MOVIE TRAILER
Scenes from the movie
Zydeco Concert
Our musical master of ceremonies for the evening is Craig Toungate, a musician and music historian who composed the music for Bean’s Booth. His knowledge of music in Louisiana and Texas culture is well known. Craig will present the fascinating history of Zydeco, and he will perform alongside accordionist Jan Flemming and our own Spider Johnson on the rub board. Jan, a native of Cologne, fell in love with Louisiana music at age 12. He has released several albums and is widely known as an accomplished accordion player in Zydeco, Conjunto and German folk music styles.
Complimentary wine will be provided by Sandstone Cellars.
Tickets are $15 per person (cash only at the door). Tickets may be purchased below with a credit card or Paypal. Please note, tickets are NOT issued. Your receipt is your ticket. Please print and bring with you. Your name will appear on the WILL CALL list at the door.
For additional concert information and questions regarding reservations, email concerts@TheOdeonTheater.com.
Doors open at 6:15 p.m. Open seating.