Marshall Starke Development Center to debut feature film

After nearly a year’s worth of work, the Marshall-Starke Development Center will debut its first feature-length film, “I Heard It through the Blueberry Vine” on Wednesday, April 24. The movie will be shown at The REES in downtown Plymouth, at 1:45 p.m.

MSDC’s mission is to provide options and opportunities for adults with disabilities. By utilizing the performing arts, MSDC empowers individuals to find their place in the community.

Prior to the movie’s debut, a pre-film gathering will be held at the Heartland Art Center starting at noon. That event will include a panel discussion about filmmaking by six industry experts and photo opportunities for everyone involved in the production of the movie. The actors and crew will then do a “red-carpet” walk to The REES to watch the film.

Wednesday’s showing will be for the cast and crew of the movie, along with their families.  At 1 p.m., Thursday, April 25, a showing for everyone at MSDC will be held. A limited number of 100 seats are available to the public. On Friday, April 26, “I Heard It through the Blueberry Vine” will be shown to the public. All showings are free.

“I Heard It through the Blueberry Vine” is the second film by the MSDC team. The group made a 20-minute short, “The Wizard of MSDC,” two years ago. It also was shown at The REES. Following the 90-minute feature, a 10-minute “blooper” reel will also be shown.