(Clearwisdom.net) On April 28, 2009, a documentary on the persecution of Falun Gong called Plum Blossom in Snow was shown at the Hippodrome State Theatre, a well-known theatre, cinema, and art gallery in downtown Gainesville, Florida.

Event venue at Hippodrome State Theatre

During film promotions, Falun Gong practitioners involved in the event were interviewed by reporters from the main local newspaper, and television and radio stations. Many people who took fliers at various events leading up to the screening were eager to help, offering to send emails and distribute fliers.

A practitioner is interviewed by a television station

The community came together in support of the event and the film was played to a full house. In introducing the film, a Falun Gong practitioner performed a song about the persecution and noticed many in the audience taking in the song with their eyes closed. Upon the film's final credits, the audience broke into applause.

Audience at the screening

The film was followed by a special guest speaker--the subject of the film, as well as a question and answer session and a Falun Gong exercise demonstration. During the discussion, many in the audience contributed good points on why the Chinese Communist Party fears allowing Chinese citizens the freedom of belief.

Audience members talking with a practitioner

A middle-school teacher who attended the event commented in a thank you note afterward: "What a moving and informative evening. We thoroughly enjoyed the presentation...Of course the subject matter (persecution) was very disturbing, and we will spread the word...The exercises are very powerful! No wonder so many people are practicing them around the world. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to learn about Falun Dafa, and the persecution of its practitioners. We will continue to pass on the knowledge that you have given us."

Audience stays to talk afterwards

The film met with similar success in Santa Fe, New Mexico and Australia last year. In Australia, the event had to be moved into a bigger cinema to accommodate the overflow of attendees. Scheduled to show for one week in Santa Fe last May, the film drew great interest and support which led to its extension for six weeks.

Category: Parades & Other Community Events