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January 8, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact info: Chris Sams, BAO SHOUT Manager – csams@birminghamaidsoutreach.org
RE: New partnership between Birmingham AIDS Outreach and Sidewalk Cinema + Film Festival
Birmingham, AL – Birmingham AIDS Outreach (BAO) is excited to announce its new partnership with SHOUT Film at Sidewalk Cinema + Film Festival, bringing together two dynamic forces in the community to raise awareness and foster dialogue about LGBTQ+ history, culture, health disparities, and well-being through the powerful medium of film. This collaboration aims to combines SHOUT Film’s reputation for promoting diverse and impactful storytelling with BAO’s dedication to health education and HIV prevention. Together, they will host a series of screenings and events designed to engage audiences, stimulate conversation, and inspire action, furthering both organizations’ commitment to inclusivity, understanding, and positive change.
Film representation plays a crucial role in shaping public perception and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community. By showcasing authentic and diverse narratives, films can challenge stereotypes, dispel myths, and foster empathy among viewers. In a society where misinformation and stigma often cloud these topics, film serves as a powerful tool to educate audiences, highlight personal stories, and encourage broader acceptance and support. This representation not only empowers individuals within the community but also inspires allies to advocate for equality and inclusive policies. By bringing these stories to the forefront, film can play an instrumental role in driving social change and advancing conversations on these critical issues.
The partnership between Sidewalk Cinema + Film Festival and BAO is a momentous occasion for the city of Birmingham, AL heralding a new chapter in community engagement and cultural enrichment. Both organizations have long been integral to the culture and social fabric of the city. Sidewalk Cinema + Film festival has earned a stellar reputation for celebrating independent film and providing a platform for diverse voices, contributing significantly to Birmingham’s vibrant arts scene. Chloe Cook, Executive Director of Sidewalk Film said “Sidewalk has a long history of celebrating and highlighting LGBTQ+ stories through film and we are thrilled to continue those efforts through the monthly SHOUT LGBTQ+ Movie Nights in 2025. The partnership with Birmingham AIDS Outreach (BAO) allows us to offer this program at no cost to the community and provide important information about LGBTQ+ resources, health education and more.”
Meanwhile, BAO has been a steadfast advocate for the health and well-being of individuals affected by HIV/AIDS and the LGBTQ+ community, offering crucial support and educational resources. Together, these organizations are poised to amplify their impact on the city, creating opportunities for meaningful dialogue and fostering a more inclusive and informed community. This collaboration promises to invigorate Birmingham’s commitment to diversity and understanding, making it an exciting and transformative development for the city and its residents. Karen Musgrove, CEO of Birmingham AIDS Outreach states, “The collaboration between SHOUT and BAO strengthens BAO’s mission to enhance the quality of life for the LGBTQ community through outreach and supportive service. BAO is excited to add SHOUT programming to our already expanded LGBTQ+ programs that include a book club, art classes, support groups, medical center, counseling, lunch and learns, yoga classes, and much more. BAO strives, through creative programs, community events, and groups, to meet the social, mental health, and medical needs of the LGBTQ+ community. We are excited for this new adventure with Sidewalk Film Center and Cinema.”
The first SHOUT Film screening will take place on January 23, 2025 at Sidewalk Cinema in the Pizitz. SHOUT will present ‘Burlesque’. The film tells the story of Ali (Aguilera), an aspiring singer who leaves her small hometown for Los Angeles, where she becomes a dancer at a struggling burlesque lounge owned by Tess (Cher). After a performance is sabotaged by her rival, Nikki, Ali sings the song herself, impressing Tess and leading to her becoming the main attraction of the lounge. Burlesque marks Christina Aguilera's first leading role, as well as Cher's first musical performance on screen.
The event is free and open to the public but tickets may be reserved by visiting sidewalkfest.com/events/burlesque. Doors open at 6:00PM with a social hour and special events and the screening will begin promptly at 7:00PM.
For more information on the new project, please contact Chris Sams, BAO SHOUT Manager. csams@birminghamaidsoutreach.org
About Birmingham AIDS Outreach: The mission of BAO is to enhance the quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS, at-risk, affected individuals, and the LGBTQ community through outreach, age-appropriate prevention education, and supportive services. In April 2014, BAO opened the LGBTQ youth center, the Magic City Acceptance Center (MCAC) offering all programs free of charge including legal clinics, counseling services, HIV/STI testing and education, art classes, drop-in hours, and health and wellness workshops. In January 2016, BAO also opened the Magic City Wellness Center offering primary medical care focused on the LGBTQ community.
About Sidewalk/SHOUT: SHOUT is a film series presented by BAO (Birmingham AIDS Outreach) in conjunction with Sidewalk Cinema + Film Festival, Birmingham’s only non-profit, independent movie theater and film festival. Our goal is to offer a diverse and inclusive film series that ensures all members of our community are represented. Combining health education and queer-related cinema, SHOUT aims to celebrate Birmingham’s LGBTQ+ community and allies while both educating and entertaining our audiences.