Science on Screen at the State! Whale Rider, Sunday January 12 at 3:00 PM

For my Modesto area readers: I've been involved for the last 18 months with an innovative program at the State Theatre called Science on Screen. The program offers movies with science themes and speakers who can offer additional perspective (and sometimes "constructive" criticism) of Hollywood's version of science. I want to invite you to attend tomorrow's event, a screening of the movie Whale Rider, and a presentation by Kimberly Stevenot.

Read below for more information (from the State Theatre Facebook page):

Topic: Does Saving a Culture Sometimes Rely on Challenging its Traditions?
 
Science On Screen begins the New Year with Whale Rider, a magical film about a 12-year-old Maori girl who dares to defy tradition and challenge her family, only to bravely fulfill her destiny as the leader of her village. This family-friendly film is rich in its imagery, its depictions of the Maori tribe, and in its own bravery in seeing the need for cultures to change, possibly in order to save them. The speaker is Kimberly Stevenot, a noted Miwuk traditionalist, basket weaver, artist and teacher who will discuss tribal customs and cultures, and will also have native regalia, jewelry and baskets on display in the lobby. The Miwuk are native Americans who have long lived in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys, and the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.

Science On Screen at The State Theatre is made possible through a grant by the Coolidge Corner Theatre, with support from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation. This pioneering program creatively pairs Hollywood films with notable experts from the world of science, technology, mathematics and medicine. Interactive activities and displays in the lobby from 2 to 3 p.m.; Ms. Stevenot, who will speak at 3, will return for a Q&A following the screening of the film.

Doors and interactive activities at 2; presentation and film at 3 p.m.; Q&A to follow film
 
Admission: $8 or $6 for student with ID
 
Group discounts are available for classes and organizations (comprised of 10 or more) wishing to attend films in the Science On Screen series. For more information please call State GM Sue Richardson at 209-527-4697.