Before Woodstock and Monterey Pop, there was Festival. From 1963 to 1966, Murray Lerner visited the annual Newport Folk Festival to document a thriving, idealistic musical movement as it reached its peak as a popular phenomenon. Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, Howlin’ Wolf, Johnny Cash, the Staples Singers, Pete Seeger, Son House, and Peter, Paul and Mary were just a few of the legends who shared the stage at Newport, treating audiences to a range of folk music that encompassed the genre’s roots in blues, country, and gospel, as well as its newer flirtations with rock ’n’ roll. Shooting in gorgeous black and white, Lerner juxtaposes performances alongside snapshot interviews with artists and their fans, weaving footage from four years of the festival into an intimate record of a pivotal time in music—and in American culture at large.

The 7:00 pm screening is a free Anniversary Screening for members only. Members may choose one Anniversary Screening to attend for free. Limited seating. Advance ticket redemption suggested.

Based on the positive feedback we’ve received, beginning on August 12 we will offer screenings for fully-vaccinated patrons on Sundays, Mondays, and Thursdays until further notice. We will require proof of vaccination to enter the JBFC Theater. Proof of vaccination may include your vaccination card, a copy of the card on your phone, or the New York Excelsior Pass app on your phone, in combination with your ID. You will not be permitted inside the facility without proof of vaccination on Sundays, Mondays, and Thursdays. Please note, a negative COVID test is not sufficient for entry.