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Join us for a special screening of "Camp RicStar," an award-winning documentary that follows the transformative journey of campers at the Eric 'Ricstar' Winter Music Therapy Camp.
Director Sam McConnell will join us for a fireside chat following the film to discuss this touching story of how music therapy creates a space where every ability is celebrated.
The documentary explores the camp's 20-year legacy of empowering people with disabilities through music, featuring eight inspiring campers as they discover new forms of self-expression and prepare for their heartwarming "Be-a-Star Showcase" performance.
CAMP RICSTAR explores the heartbreaking history and profound impact of a one-of-a-kind camp for people with disabilities, the Eric ‘Ricstar’ Winter Music Therapy Camp. On the occasion of its 20th anniversary, we follow eight spirited campers who embrace being uninhibited as they sing, dance, create, connect, and discover new ways to express themselves. Finally, they perform at the “Be-a-Star Showcase,” where every level of ability is included and celebrated center stage.
Sam McConnell is a writer, director, and producer. He is partner in the New York and Los Angeles based production company, McConnell / Hauser. Their work spans narrative and documentary films, commercials, web series, music videos, PSAs, and video art installations. Sam has directed two feature films: “Test,” an indie drama currently in post-production, and the award-winning documentary “Camp RicStar,” (2024) about a life-changing music therapy camp for kids with disabilities. In addition, Sam has produced two acclaimed HBO documentaries exploring identity: The Out List (featuring Ellen Degeneres, Larry Kramer, Cynthia Nixon, and Neil Patrick Harris) and The Trans List (featuring Laverne Cox and Janet Mock,) both with director Timothy Greenfield-Sanders. Sam directed two episodes of The Warehouse Phase (2025) and the full first season (seven episodes) of Older Hotter Wiser (2025), both for Peacock. He has directed five short films, all of which have played in festivals across the country and internationally. Sam holds a BA and MFA from Columbia University in New York.
AGE GROUP: | Adults |
EVENT TYPE: | Film | Disability Pride Month |
