STREET GANG is being released in theaters only and will not be streaming via our virtual cinema.
Based on Michael Davis’s best-selling book of the same name, Marilyn Agrelo’s film STREET GANG: HOW WE GOT TO SESAME STREET explores how creator Joan Ganz Cooney, original series director Jon Stone, and legendary Muppets creators Jim Henson and Frank Oz — among other key talents — joined forces to create a children’s television show that would become a groundbreaking cultural phenomenon. Recognizing that kids were utterly captivated by television, these visionaries set out to harness the power of the medium for good — to offer learning rather than products to children. More than 50 years later, the show reaches over 150 countries around the world, continuing to entertain while it educates.
Drawing on fantastic and funny behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with beloved cast members and crew, the film goes beyond the considerable nostalgic appeal of “Sesame Street” to tap into the enduring emotional resonance of the program’s core message of affirmation and inclusion — and the promise of preparing the next generation to imagine a better world for us all. (Synopsis from the 2021 Sundance Film Festival)
“Initially conceived of as a then-revolutionary combination of children’s entertainment and educational instruction — literally inventing the idea of educational TV — “Sesame Street” has only maintained and expanded its lofty ambitions over the course of more than five decades. That success, [director Marilyn] Agrelo’s film sagely argues, was no accident, but instead the product of careful, considerate, and forward-thinking planning. It may be magic, but boy, does it take work.” —Kate Erbland, IndieWire “It’s hard to ask for much more than a doc that captures creatives thoughtfully sneaking the civil revolution as well as basic education into children’s TV and includes a Muppets blooper reel.” —Chris Willman, Variety “It follows in the footsteps of the Mr. Rogers documentary WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR by shining a light on the making of the iconic series, revealing things you may not have known about its creators, and bringing some good old fashioned nostalgia to your heart. It’ll make you want to go back to ‘Sesame Street’ all over again.” —Ethan Anderton, Slashfilm
NOTE: Seating capacities are limited for all showtimes — and some showtimes may sell out. Therefore, advance ticket purchases are encouraged.
