A special screening of “The Nita & Zita Project” takes place at the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) on Wednesday, April 24. This mesmerizing documentary chronicles the extraordinary journey of two legendary dancers who left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of New Orleans.
Nita and Zita, two Jewish Hungarian sisters, embarked on a remarkable odyssey as contortionist acrobatic performers, captivating audiences around the world with their dazzling routines. From their humble beginnings to their rise to international stardom in the 1920s, the film explores their unparalleled artistry and resilience in the face of adversity.
Following the screening in NOMA’s Lapis Center for the Arts from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a discussion with Marci Darling, the film’s writer, director, and producer, along with Sharon Gillen, producer, and renowned burlesque performer Trixie Minx. This insightful conversation promises to delve into the untold stories behind the making of the film and the enduring legacy of Nita and Zita.
In addition to the screening and discussion, guests are invited to view the exquisite costumes worn by Nita and Zita, providing a tangible connection to their captivating story of resilience and creativity.
About the Speakers:
Marci Darling has been a storyteller for decades. Darling has written five bestselling books and her writing has appeared in such esteemed publications as the Boston Globe, the New York Times, and Louisiana Homes and Gardens. She worked as a professional belly dancer, circus acrobat, contortionist–illusionist, and burlesque dancer for ten years, dancing on tour with The Go-Go’s, the B-52’s, Paul McCartney, and many others. She is Adjunct Faculty at Endicott College, where she instructs educators on integrating the arts into teaching strategies. Darling also holds a Master’s of Education from Harvard University, a bachelor’s degree in English and Creative Writing from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a certificate in writing from Stanford Univerisity. The Nita & Zita Project is her first film and serves as a tribute to her dance partner and soulmate Kim Murphy, who passed away in 2018.
Dr. Sharon Gillen is a self-described “perfectly imperfect human who finds great joy in approaching life as an opportunity for learning.” Gillen is a medical doctor and was drawn to the profession as a way to help heal people. More recently, she has realized the power of healing through storytelling and feels called to honor her ancestors by connecting more deeply to the divine feminine and her Jewish heritage. She is a descendant of persecuted Jews from the Baia Mare area in Romania, the same area as Nita & Zita. She is a lover of all things film and has served on the board of the New Orleans Film Society.
Trixie Minx is a Burlesque performer, producer, educator and a leader in the preservation and innovation of the Art of Tease. Known for her classic yet playful style of dance, she is also recognized as a premiere burlesque producer with multiple New Orleans-based shows in addition to several custom-created productions for special events through her company Trixie Minx Productions. Recently Minx opened Trixie’s Burlesque Boutique & Studio, which offers custom products by performing artists and dance classes to the public. Beyond the stage, Minx also volunteers her time as an advocate for affordable performer healthcare with the New Orleans Musicians Clinic.
Don’t miss this unforgettable evening celebrating the timeless allure of Nita and Zita, and their extraordinary contributions to the cultural tapestry of New Orleans.
This event, which is free and open to the public.For more information, visit noma.org.
