Fine Arts

This middle school program features the classic film, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939, dir. Frank Capra), for in-depth study. The lessons and activities, with multiple cross-curricular connections, introduce students to what a movie is, the filmmaking process, film Language and elements of style, and the historical and cultural context of the movie Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.

Director Martin Scorsese winds his way from the banks of the Niger River in Mali to the cotton fields and juke joints of the Mississippi Delta to trace the origins of the blues in a lyrical combination of original performances (including Corey Harris, Willie King, Taj Mahal, Keb' Mo', Otha Turner, Habib Koite, Salif Keita, and Alo Fark Toure) and rare archival footage.

Hip-hop legend Chuck D (of Public Enemy) and Marshall Chess (son of Leonard Chess and heir to the Chess Records legacy) return to Chicago to explore the heyday of Chicago blues as they unite to produce music that seeks to bring veteran blues players together with contemporary hip-hop musicians such as Common and members of The Rods.