Before Diana Covey passed away on August 13 after a difficult battle with cancer, she gave her blessing to a film that her life in addiction, and especially in recovery, inspired.
“Diana was one of our Recovery Program success stories,” said Rescue Mission CEO Joy Sylvester-Johnson. “To see the way that God transformed her life, and then restored her relationship with her twin sister was truly remarkable. We loved Diana and we hope, as she did, that this film, ‘Sienna Burning,’ will encourage others to experience the power of forgiveness.”
Prudent Pictures and the Rescue Mission are collaborating with the Taubman Museum of Art, which will open its doors for a free, private cast and crew screening of “Sienna Burning” in its Advance Auto Parts Auditorium on Sunday, Nov. 8. The doors will open at 2:00 p.m. for light refreshments with the Filmmakers, provided by the Mission’s 2nd Helpings Café. The screening will begin at 3:00 p.m. followed by a Q&A session with the filmmakers as well as experts in the field of addiction and recovery.
“This is an exciting collaborative relationship that advocates for and promotes our local partner and community connections, integrates art and health, and engages our visitors,” said Cindy Petersen, Deputy Director of Education and Visitor Engagement at the Taubman Museum of Art.
“Sienna Burning” is a 10-minute short film shot locally by Prudent Pictures in partnership with Roanoke Cinematographer and Executive Producer Dave Perry. Andrea Shreeman, a 1987 graduate of Cave Spring High School, directed the film. Shreeman also co-wrote the script with Executive Producer Tom Spitnale of Salem.
“This film has felt blessed from start to finish,” Shreeman said. “Everything we have needed has rushed to meet us, from money to resources to talent. I am deeply grateful that so many gifted local artists have had a hand in its making. This screening event will be a wonderful send-off as we prepare to take ‘Sienna Burning’ out on the festival circuit and share it with the rest of the world.”
Fans of the CW’s hit show “Supernatural” will recognize the lead actress in the film. Ruth Connell, who plays both twin sisters in “Sienna Burning,” also stars in “Supernatural” as the villainous witch, Rowena. Some sets may be recognizable as well. Much of the film was shot on location at the Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute which has conducted similar addiction studies as the one depicted in the movie.
Seating for this local screening is very limited, so please RSVP to events@rescuemission.net to reserve seats.
