Spirit Flute: Healing the Heart

See it on the big screen one day only with special guests in attendance! Presented and produced by the Norman Cultural Connection, co-director/producer Marial Martyn and many of those featured in the film will be in attendance including Timothy Tate Nevaquaya (Comanche), Lewis Johnson (Seminole), Nelson Harjo (Alabama-Quassarte), Wendell and Jack Pettigrew (Chickasaw), and DJ Battiest-Tomasi (Choctaw). The Q&A will be moderated by Bobbie Chew Bigby (Cherokee, NYU Tulsa lecturer on Native Arts in Contemporary America).

Tickets on sale now, regular price.

About the film: 58min, documentary, suitable for all ages
Academy Award winning actor Wes Studi narrates this film that delves into the extraordinary journey of a several Oklahoma flute makers and flute players who share the storied tradition of the Native flute and the concern in keeping this art form alive. The film also explores gender roles and its impact on flute making and flute playing in contemporary times. The documentary highlights the beauty of the Oklahoma landscape and the interconnection of the land and the Native flute. As a special interview, multi-Grammy nominated artist R. Carlos Nakai was invited to share his life-long wisdom and spiritual connection playing the flute. Mr. Nakai speaks of the influences he received from renowned Oklahoma flute players, along with the importance of continuing the journey and tradition of playing the flute and the impact it has on the human spirit worldwide.

Enoch Kelly Haney, former chief of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma, former Oklahoma state legislator, and internationally recognized artist and creator of The Guardian, the sculpture on top of the Oklahoma State Capitol dome, was the Executive Producer and Consultant of the film. Marial Martyn, Executive Director of Norman Cultural Connection co-directed and co-produced the film along with award winning television and film director and producer, Michael J. Kirk. Mr. Kirk’s film and television projects have been aired on public and commercial networks, including Amazon Video, Apple TV, The History Channel, A&E, and PBS. “Spirit Flute: Healing the Heart” is brought to you by Hobbs, Straus, Walker & Dean, LLP – Promoting and Defending Tribal Rights. For nearly 40 years, Hobbs Straus has worked to help tribes realize positive change in Indian Country. Additional support was provided by The Cherokee Nation, The Chickasaw Nation, The Choctaw Nation, and The Seminole Nation of Oklahoma of Oklahoma.

Norman Cultural Connection is a 501(c)(3)nonprofit organization located in Norman, Oklahoma and is committed to enhancing awareness, understanding, and appreciation of our neighbors and the wisdom of various communities. For more information visit https://www.normanculturalconnection.org.