The Documentary Group is an independent production company, founded in 2006 by the core members of PJ Productions following the death of legendary broadcaster Peter Jennings. The producers and directors, who were for many years the team behind Jennings’ documentaries at ABC News, are dedicated to continuing the tradition of smart, sensitive and innovative filmmaking.
When we first heard about the Midsummer Night’s Dream production in Newtown, the DocGroup felt that the work the students are doing this summer offered an opportunity to tell a powerful and important story: about a community that refuses to be defined by tragedy and the transformative power of the arts.
Midsummer in Newtown (working title) is a feature documentary that follows the students through all of the important moments of the production. From the first read-through—as they struggled to make sense of and pronounce unfamiliar words. To staging and blocking—as they worked to learn theatrical terms like stage left/right, and finally the week of dress rehearsals and opening night jitters. As we have come to know these children and young adults – and the community in which they live – we are seeing a wonderful town, thrust into the national spotlight by extraordinary violence, but determined to come together and deal with the aftermath on its own terms.
A (Rockin’) Midsummer Night’s Dream is one example of this determination – a true community experience embracing the unique joys and healing offered by the performing arts. As Nicole Kolitsas, who is one of the actors playing the part of Puck, told us, “Putting on a show like this shows that one person can’t destroy us—and if we all come together, we can make something beautiful.”
As we engage in this production process, it is deeply important that we are as sensitive as possible to the needs of the various communities in Newtown. We are available to answer any questions or talk through any concerns that any family members may have. Additionally, beyond the children and parents involved in the Midsummer show, we believe that it is important to hear from members of the larger Newtown community who can share their own experience and speak profoundly to what the community has been through and what it means to attempt to recover.
If you have questions, would like to find out more or might be interested in participating, please contact our producer, Braden Bergan at [email protected].
Here is the link to our website if you would like to know more about our group .
Like this post? Share it with your friends!
[…] like Matilda on co-producer Van Dean’s record label, Broadway Records. Additionally, a feature documentary will be produced by the DocGroup, following the students through important moments of the […]