University by the Sea

The annual University by the Sea event in the East Village Arts District showcased films about the history of the city.

Film was one of the featured categories for the event, and several activities were available for the average movie buff to enjoy. Long Beach Heritage Museum Executive Director Ken Larkey provided commentary for the Long Beach Home Movies class hosted at the wedding chapel in the Breakers Building. Authentic home movies from the 1920s through the 1960s were shown, highlighting the history of some of Long Beach’s most famous landmarks.

Next up for film events was another trip back in time to the silent movie era. Balboa Studios expert Jean-Jacques Jura showed Henry King’s 1916 production “Little Mary Sunshine.” The film was shot at Balboa Studios in Long Beach and harkened back to the days when the city was the hubbub of the movie industry.

For those interested in the art of dance, the Cooper Arms Building played host to a class called “Understanding Dance.” Renae Williams Niles, director of dance presentations for the Music Center, a non-profit organization, hosted the event that featured short films of local dance companies performing this season. The films were followed by discussions exploring the art behind the dance by local dance leaders.

Cal State Long Beach students also played a part in the University by the Sea activities by showing their films in the CSULB Film Festival. Audience-choice awards of $500, $300 and $200 were given to the winners based on votes from the audience.