Reelabilities Film Festival: Cleveland & Akron is partnering with Akron-Summit County Public Library and Summit County Developmental Disability Board to host a screen of “Left Alone Rhapsody” which will be followed by a discussion with the film’s producer and additional community panelists. All events are free and open to the public. Click here to access the library’s events page for more details.
1:00pm Reception begins in meeting room 2AB with Hearts for Music Band, beverages, and snacks. The Atrium will have the Look Beyond Art Gallery. This gallery will be open to the public Nov 8-Dec 3 (Akron Art Space). There will be additional tables with information and resources from local accessibility organizations. At 1:30pm, atrium doors open to the public and seating for the film begins. 1:45pm concludes the reception.
2:00pm Opening remarks then film screening.
3:30pm-ish Following the film will be a Q&A with the film’s producer and local community organizations.
4:30-5:00pm Event concludes.
Film Summary: At 25, Leonard Bernstein protégé, John Bayless, debuted at Carnegie Hall, performing “Rhapsody In Blue” with full orchestra. His jaw-dropping technical prowess at the piano initiated a 30-year-long concert and recording career as a solo pianist, composer, and improvisor. At 54, a left-brain stroke immobilized his dominant right side. The music stopped. John’s magical ‘first act’ disappeared.
Left Alone Rhapsody chronicles John’s rise from four-year-old Texas musical prodigy to international star; John’s fall post-stroke and courageous struggle to transcend paralysis; and John’s determination to re-invent himself as a one-handed musician and storyteller.
As neurologists discuss his brain, rabbis his Jewish conversion, friends the loss of his husband to cancer, and Yamaha’s representatives their Disklavier piano technology which could allow him to play with ‘two hands,’ John embarks on an amazing journey. This is his musical story. 1hr 40 min.
Please Note: Some films may contain content and language not suitable for children.
Parking: Free parking is available in the parking lot next to the main entrance.
Accommodations: If accommodations are required to participate in the evening, please contact RFF: Cleveland & Akron at:
Email: [email protected]
Text/Voice: 330.990.3046
