Senior Movie Matinee: Bessie

Join us for a free afternoon at the movies!

Seniors 55+ are invited to enjoy a film on the big screen in the Sabathani Auditorium.

About the Film: Bessie

Experience the powerful story of blues legend Bessie Smith in this acclaimed HBO film directed by Dee Rees. Bessie traces Smith’s rise from a struggling young performer to becoming the iconic “Empress of the Blues,” capturing her bold talent, resilience, and unapologetic spirit during the height of the 1920s blues era. Starring Queen Latifah in a commanding, Emmy-nominated performance, the film also features Michael Kenneth Williams as Jack Gee and Academy Award winner Mo’Nique as trailblazing blues singer Ma Rainey. Together, they bring to life the vibrant, complicated world of early American blues and the woman who helped shape its legacy. Premiering in 2015, Bessie became the most-watched HBO original film in the network’s history at the time and earned four Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Television Movie.

Join us for this unforgettable portrait of a music pioneer whose voice still echoes through American culture today.

Event Details

When: Thursday, March 19 • 1 – 3pm
Where: Sabathani Community Center Auditorium


Free Admission + Snacks

🔗 Click here to register now.

If you have questions, please contact Senior Coordinator Joyce Mayes at jmayes@sabathani.org or call 612-821-2313.