Thirty years ago, Edward “Nardie” White and Zambia Nkrumah formed a Black drum corps in Louisville, Kentucky, with the aim of teaching West Louisville youth about music, art, and their own heritage. Directors Anne Flatté and Marlon Johnson explore the drumline’s past and present in their documentary “River City Drumbeat.”
The doc sees drumline alum Albert Shumake taking over leadership of the team, and also follows young drummers Imani, Jailen, and Emily. The group stresses the importance of history, community, and culture in “River City Drumbeat’s” trailer.
“I pledge to my ancestors/whose names I may not know/in respect for their great struggles/that I struggle to grow,” the drumline members recite in the spot. “Our culture’s gonna be our savior,” one character remarks.
White and Nkrumah “inspired youth from their West Louisville neighborhood to thrive by connecting them with the art and cultural traditions of their African ancestors,” per the film’s synopsis. “River City Drumbeat” “follows this creative community of mentors, parents, and youth making their way in a world where systemic forces raise obstacles to fulfilling their dreams.”
The doc marks Flatté’s feature directorial debut. She previously edited “Monumental: David Brower’s Fight for Wild America” and “Music Makes a City: A Louisville Orchestra Story,” and produced “Serenade for Haiti.”
“Deep City” and “Symphony in D” are among Johnson’s past directing and producing credits.
“River City Drumbeat” made its world premiere last year at DOC NYC. It will have virtual screenings via cinemas in New York, San Francisco, Louisville, and more beginning August 7. Head over to the doc’s website for more screening info.
