Some events have a vibe felt from the moment you arrive. The world premiere of “On Dreams of Dixie” shown at Desert Hills High School on Sat, Aug. 1, was such an occasion. As attendees entered the doors, they stepped onto the red carpet and into a magical evening. Ushers were decked out in old-school attire and posters from the film lined the walls leading to the reception area, completely transforming the school into a grand theater lobby.
The Snow Canyon Jazz Ensemble played live music. A full container of popcorn, candy bar, and soda was available for each attendee. A photo booth to capture the moment offered free pictures. Everything was in place to create an ambiance that could be felt as much as seen and heard. However, the most precious thing in the room for the “On Dreams of Dixie” premiere was not the props, the glitter, or the glam; it was the people and their genuine sense of community and belonging. It felt as if nearly everyone in the room had a stake in the film. They spoke of it as if it were their project, their baby.
Many of the attendees were from the Washington County School District, including employees from the district office, school administrators, and classroom teachers with varying experience and years of service. There were also city leaders, community activists, and former Washington County School District students of yesteryear spanning a wide range of graduation dates. The room was filled with varied income levels, years of service, and experience, yet people moved freely and engaged one another more like something you would see at a class reunion of old-time friends. People shared their stories of when they were in school and what they are doing now. Smiles seemed to be being served with the refreshments, as everyone wore one. Laughter rolled and hugs were shared during the reception while awaiting show time.
When the call was made announcing it was seating time, the people moved from the “theater lobby” to the auditorium, and attendees were visibly excited to see the film. Washington County School District Superintendent Larry Bergeson emceed the program. He shared his excitement in “On Dreams of Dixie” and all that had gone into making the documentary celebrating the school district’s 100 years of education. Like any movie theater, the whispers, popcorn bags crinkling, and soda sipping could all be heard in anticipation of the start of the film, but within moments of the screen being lit up with a film that was collectively “owned” by the audience, the only sound that could be heard was the narrating voice of Wilford Brimley.
Brimley’s deep, smooth voice took audience members immediately to a near-childlike place, sitting in fascination with a thirst for seeing what was before their eyes. Throughout the film, the crowd laughed, sniffled, and laughed again. The personal stories within the story took them back to places all along the school district’s 100-year history. The selection of spotlights, interviews, and contributions transitioned with a nice flow and were broad enough in topic and timeline to allow everyone to continue to take ownership in the film, because many of them had lived the life “On Dreams of Dixie” depicted.
As the closing credits came up, people did not move. They sat like students in front of a teacher giving out study information for the final exam. As the credits rolled, music from previous Washington County School District students Dia and Meg Frampton played. The event was a tremendous success. The nostalgic feel and ambiance provided a sense of belonging, and the interaction of attendees demonstrated community ties. The vibe was warm, loving, joyful, peaceful, and gave off a sense of togetherness. Both as the subject of “On Dreams of Dixie” and on its own, this heartwarming history of education in southern Utah was a big hit.
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