MUSIC is considered to be the purest form of human expression and communication, virtually a universal language. Right On: Poetry on Film (1971), directed by Herbert Danska and produced by Woodie King, features The Last Poets, three young black men (Gylan Kain, David Nelson and Felipe Luciano) who recited their poetry on rooftops with the accompaniment of conga drums. The Last Poets drew on the vernacular of the working class, employing the “street” language of the time to alert their community to the dangers of racism and extol the diversity of black life in America. A Conversation With Nedra (1988), by Jerome Thomas, provides an intimate conversation with jazz musician Nedra Wheeler. We see Nedra as she elaborates on the origins of jazz, the importance of family and community life; and what she hopes will be the reception of her music once heard. Program by Toney Merritt

pictured: Right On: Poetry on Film (1971) by Herbert Danska and Woodie King