Australian Documentary Brings Musical Message of Hope to Montreal

MONTREAL, August 31, 2007: 'The Music in Me' - the award-winning documentary by Australian filmmakers, Anne Kenyon and Nigel Traill will receive a triple screening this week at the Montreal World Film Festival.

Recipient of the Prix Pierre Salinger at the 24th Annual Avignon Film Festival in June, 'The Music in Me' tells the profoundly moving story of 'The Merry Makers' - a unique dance troupe in Sydney, Australia — the majority of whom have physical or intellectual disabilities. During the 63-minute documentary, the dancers and their families are filmed with engaging tenderness, empathy and candour as they prepare for the biggest show of their lives – a sell-out concert at Sydney’s Entertainment Centre.

Speaking in Montreal after their marathon journey from Sydney, producer Anne Kenyon said:

"On behalf of the production team and the wonderful members of the Merry Makers, I want to thank the Selection Committee of the Montreal World Film Festival for giving our film this fantastic opportunity to reach even wider audiences. One cannot fail to be both moved and inspired by the spirit, determination and charisma of every member of the group.”

Merry Makers Artistic Director, Lucinda Bryant added:

"I hope that people in Montreal and beyond will embrace the film and look at disability in a new light. Each moment the dancers spend refining their routines and performing for audiences, is a celebration of the courage, independence and sheer joy of life that unites us all regardless of our physical or intellectual abilities."

Screening dates and times at the Quartier Latin Cinema Complex in Montreal are:
Friday, August 31 @ 5:30 PM; Saturday, September 1 @ 9:30 AM; Sunday, September 2 @ 5:30 PM.

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