Join us for an electrifying night of soul-stirring rhythms and an unforgettable true story. Experience the ‘greatest concert film of all time’ “Summer of Soul” on the big screen, a documentary that captures the magic of the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival in NYC. Think Mahalia Jackson, Sly and the Family Stone, and Hugh Masakela. Immerse yourself in the energy of the era as we transport you back to a time when music united a community.
After the film, stay for an underground party where Bristol’s rich musical heritage takes centre stage. Journeying from R&B and soul classics, moving through to the infectious sounds of funk and disco. Our talented DJ’s will take you on a sonic journey that transcends genres, fusing film with music. Don your flares and practise your moves as we celebrate the music, artists and culture that sprang from 60s Harlem and landed under a glitterball in downtown Bristol.
Saturday 29th July. The Galleries Underground Car Park (Fairfax St, Broadmead, BS1 3DX)
6.15PM – 2AM
Read on to book your FREE ticket…
Expanded Screening
6.15pm – 10pm
“Summer of Soul,” directed by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, is a captivating and powerful documentary that transports viewers back to the summer of 1969, when the forgotten cultural event known as the Harlem Cultural Festival took place in New York City. With a mix of electrifying musical performances and intimate interviews, the film showcases the vibrant spirit and resilience of the Black community during a pivotal moment in American history. From iconic musicians like Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, and Sly and the Family Stone, the film brings to life the joy, energy, and cultural significance of this historic gathering. With its exceptional archival footage and insightful storytelling, “Summer of Soul” celebrates the music, the people, and the enduring legacy of an event that had been overlooked for far too long.
Compass Presents and Cinema Rediscovered invite you to step into the world of Summer of Soul in this expanded screening. Expect busker style performances and musical encounters before taking your seat. Let your esteemed host Edson Burton guide you through the evening which will be a show, concert, film screening and all-night-party rolled into one.
*SOLD OUT*
24/07/23 UPDATE. All seated tickets for the Summer of Soul film screening are currently sold out. We have released a limited number of standing tickets on a first come, first served basis via the link below.
Funk & Soul Afterparty
10.30pm – 2.30am
Join us for an unforgettable night of funk and soul at our FREE underground party in Bristol’s newest subterranean venue, following the film experience of “Summer of Soul.” Get ready to groove as we transport you back to the vibrant streets of 1960s Harlem. Your esteemed host will guide you throughout the evening, leading you into a world where DJs reign supreme and the dance floor is your sanctuary.
We welcome our party purveyors: DJ Style, an influential figure in Bristol’s hip-hop scene and Streets of Soul, a dynamic, female-led funk collective ready to ignite the floor. Prepare to be captivated by Cheeba’s VJ set, where the archive film will transport you through the pivotal musical moments in Bristol’s history.
Brush up on your dance moves because we’ll be hosting a soul train competition that’ll have everyone on their feet with no exceptions! Get ready to immerse yourself in the ultimate fusion of film, music, and soulful vibes – this is a party you won’t want to miss!
**SOLD OUT**
More Information & FAQ
This is a free but ticketed event. Please book your free tickets via the links above. Please note: the film screening and underground funk and soul party are ticketed separately. If you would like to attend both parts, please ensure you buy a ticket for each of them.
This event is part of the City of Film Summer Film Takeover and is being delivered as one of the activities under the City Centre and High Streets Recovery and Renewal programme, funded by Bristol City Council and the West of England Combined Authority’s Love our High Streets project.
Please note: Please be aware that media (including video, photos or audio) may be collected at this event. If you do not wish to be included, please stand aside and/or make yourself known to the photographer or videographer. Media collected at the event will only be used in relevant communications by the council and Compass Presents.
Where does this event take place?
This event takes place in the Galleries underground car park accessed via Fairfax Street
What time should I get there?
For the Summer of Soul Screening, doors will open at 6.15pm and the experience will begin promptly at 7pm. Please arrive before 7pm and have your ticket ready to scan at the door. Summer of Soul Screening finishes at 10pm, we ask that you leave the venue at this time so we can prepare for the afterparty.
For those attending the afterparty, doors will open again at 10.30pm, last entry is at 11.30pm and the night finishes at 2.30am.Ticket holders for both Summer of Soul Screening and the Afterparty will have priority access for the Afterparty and be able to queue jump on re-entry, please follow the security’s direction.
Will there be food and drink?
There is a licensed bar selling a range of alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages. There are no food vendors on site. We recommend grabbing a bite to eat from one of the many brilliant and local eateries nearby in between the film and the afterparty.
Do I need a ticket?
This event is free but ticketed. Please ensure you book a ticket for the screening and the afterparty separately via the links above if you would like to come to both. Make sure you have the QR code ready to scan on your phone.
What shall I bring?
Your best moves and 60’s disco garms! There is a licensed bar at this event so please do not bring your own drinks.
How do I get there?
There is no official public parking for the event. We encourage you to walk, cycle or use public transport to attend. There are many bike racks located around the Galleries and Broadmead. Please note the Galleries’ car park closes at 11.30pm.
Is there an age limit?
Yes – Summer of Soul is rated 12A therefore any under 12 year olds must be accompanied by an adult. Anyone attending the afterparty must be 18 and over. Please bring photo ID with you.
Can I come for just the film/ just the afterparty?
Yes! We recommend coming to both for the full Summer of Soul experience, but tickets for each can be bought separately.
