In recognition of Juneteenth, Norman Studios is proud to present Mute, a short silent film and Black Heroes presentation created by students from The Performance Academy.
The screening will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 13, in the Rita F. Reagan Set Building at Norman Studios, 6360 Commerce Street in Jacksonville.
This special program showcases the talents of young filmmakers, actors, and artists from The Performance Academy, a Jacksonville nonprofit arts organization dedicated to helping youth develop creative and life skills through visual arts, dance, music, acting, and other artistic disciplines. The organization places a particular emphasis on serving underserved and at-risk youth, providing opportunities for self-expression, confidence building, teamwork, and leadership through the arts.
Mute was written, produced, directed, filmed, and performed by the students themselves. In addition to the film screening, students will present a Black Heroes program highlighting individuals whose achievements and contributions helped shape American history. The presentation aligns with the spirit of Juneteenth, a holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and celebrates African American history, culture, and achievement.
The event also reflects the ongoing mission of Norman Studios, one of the nation’s most significant surviving silent-film studios created specifically to produce films featuring African American casts. Today, the restored campus serves as a center for education, preservation, and community engagement, connecting modern audiences with an important chapter of film history.
Admission is free, although donations to support Norman Studios and its educational programming are always appreciated. Seating is limited, and advance registration is encouraged.
Click the image below to reserve your spot.
