'Bridge' screened in Saxonburg
SAXONBURG — The environment was electric at the Roebling Museum on Saturday evening for the world premiere of “Roebling's Bridge” a short film about a big story.
The screening took place in Cooper Hall at Roebling Park.
A reception featuring appetizers courtesy of local businesses allowed attendees to rub shoulders with the actors, director and producer of this historical film focusing on John Roebling's Brooklyn Bridge.
Chris Emmons, director; Mark Friedman, producer; Jeffrey Grover, who played John Roebling; Liam Bingham, who played John's son Washington Roebling; and Josefine Christoffersen, who portrayed Washington's wife, Emily Roebling, were on hand to answer questions and listen to stories about Saxonburg.
Excitement built as people milled around the museum sharing tales of the past and their anticipation about the future of the movie project.
“Until tonight the only viewing of this production has been on laptops,” Friedman said.
Back in November Fred Caesar, president of the Saxonburg Museum, reached out to Friedman offering historical assistance and to propose an opportunity for the premiere of the movie about Roebling to be in the town he co-founded.
Details were worked out and several weeks later the screen was hung and tickets collected.
Viewers were led into Cooper Hall down a red carpeted hallway.
Introductions were made and opening remarks by Caesar included an expression of gratitude for the presence of the premiere.
Friedman said, “I couldn't imagine a better place to debut the movie in this town Roebling co-founded.”
Friedman who has been looking at the Brooklyn Bridge since he was in second grade, wrote the screenplay and connected with Emmons, who became the director.
The cast was introduced and each shared how amazing it was to launch the film in Saxonburg. They expressed their gratitude for the opportunity.
A hush fell over the crowd as the stage was set for the film and the lights were dimmed.For the next 20 minutes, the audience sat transfixed by the action unfolding on the screen.The film touches on Roebling's attachment to his deceased wife, his connection with his son and the injury that prevented him from seeing the project finished.His son Washington assumed the responsibility saying, “John Augustus Roebling did not teach me to build barriers, he taught me to build bridges.”The show ends abruptly, leaving the audience wanting more.As the credits appeared and the lights came on, it was apparent there would be more to this story.A visibly moved and passionate Caesar took the microphone and brought the cast back to the stage for questions.The crew fielded queries about their inspiration, source of historical research and the future of the project.Grover said, “Regardless of the iconic bridge, the story is about people engaged and devoted to a mission.”He challenged people to explore the legacy they leave behind and while people may be known for what they do, it's more important to be known for who they are.He said the film was made over the course of three very long days.Mayor William Gillespie then presented the producer and the cast with a proclamation announcing Dec. 16 as Roebling Bridge Recognition Day.Caesar gave each of the film participants Saxonburg Proud knit caps as a token of thanks for coming and celebrating the premiere in Saxonburg.An autograph session followed where people waited to get their own personalized movie poster.The Saxonburg Hotel hosted the film's crew for dinner and their lodging was provided by the Main Stay Bed and Breakfast.For information on “Roebling's Bridge” and when it will be available to the public, visit the website roeblingsbridge.com.
