Beats of the Antonov

Thoughtful, toe-tapping new documentary about the vital role of music in the Nuba Mountains of Sudan.

“War is good and bad... it can connect kids to their culture.” — refugee Insaf Awad

Opening with vivid footage of a bombing raid which ends in nervous laughter, this thoughtful, moving film explores the role that music plays as a survival strategy and safety valve for people in the Blue Nile and Nuba Mountains, caught up in Sudan’s devastating and ongoing civil war. The film features some electric performances, including a sassy teenage choir and a DIY electric instrument using brake cables for strings.

This screening is presented in partnership with Celebrating Sanctuary, and before the film there will be a short live set from Sudanese singer and instrumentalist Salih Hassan Nour.