Two Omaha organizations are teaming up for a film festival highlighting the work of an inclusive cast.
The Circle Theatre and QLI Rehabilitation Center will hold a film festival this weekend to celebrate two original films: “Mirror Mirror” and “Dimensions: A Space Odyssey.”
A press release stated that both films feature a cast made up entirely of QLI residents and team members. For the first-time actors, the experience came with nerves, excitement and months of hard work — while redefining what inclusion in the performing arts looks like.
“The collaboration reflects a deeply shared belief between both organizations that artistic expression has the power to build confidence, strengthen relationships, and unlock new opportunities for self-expression,” the press release stated. “For the residents of QLI, the project provided a unique platform to pursue a new passion, build independence, and engage meaningfully with the broader community.”
The event will be held on the QLI campus at the Lied Life Center auditorium on July 25-26.
“Mirror, Mirror” will screen Saturday at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 6 p.m. “Dimensions: A Space Odyssey” will screen Saturday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.
Proceeds from the festival will support the continued growth of the inclusive film program partnership between Circle Theatre and QLI, creating ongoing opportunities for artists of all abilities to collaborate, create, and share original work with the community.
Individual general admission tickets for the films are $10, and can be purchased online.
The collaboration between the theatre and QLI features films written and directed by QLI’s Mary Sheldrick, with editing and filming by Courtney Stein Cairncross and musical direction by Zak Lindsey.
Circle Theatre is the only exclusively inclusive performing arts organization in Omaha, the release stated. It operates under the mantra, inclusion without exception.
QLI specializes in rehabilitation for people with spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries and other complex neurological conditions. Located in northwest Omaha, QLI helps clients rebuild their lives by creating hope, promoting dignity and fostering independence through innovative, person-centered rehabilitation.