• Always for Pleasure

  • Dizzy Gillespie

  • Sworn to the Drum: A Tribute to Francisco Aguabella


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Tickets for the general public go on sale May 10 at 11:00 AM.

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Always for Pleasure

Les Blank
United States, 1978

In Conversation

  • Maureen Gosling
  • Chris Simon

    Chris Simon is a documentary filmmaker who spent seventeen years producing the films of Les Blank.

  • John Santos

    John Santos is a multi-Grammy-nominated percussionist, prolific Afro-Latin band leader, composer, teacher, writer, and producer who has worked with acknowledged masters like Cachao, Dizzy Gillespie, Tito Puente, Max Roach, and Omar Sosa.

  • Harrod Blank

Les Blank’s most joyous film, Always for Pleasure presents festivity as essential to the human spirit. In New Orleans, even a funeral procession ends with a raucous dance—“You take ’em on out and you boogie back,” explains musician Allen Toussaint. Blank’s camera enters the heart of such jubilant celebrations—with drinking, dancing, and eating in the streets.

FILM DETAILS 
Print Info
  • Color
  • DCP
  • 58 mins
Source
  • Janus Films
Preceded By

Dizzy Gillespie

Les Blank, United States, 1964

A rare black-and-white depiction of the great jazz trumpeter. Blank’s camera follows Gillespie on- and offstage, enticed by the presence of his vibrant and dynamic persona. 

FILM DETAILS 
Print Info
  • B&W
  • Digital
  • 22 mins
source
  • Les Blank Films
Followed By

Sworn to the Drum: A Tribute to Francisco Aguabella

Les Blank, United States, 1995

The great Afro-Cuban drummer and percussionist is featured in riveting performances. Aguabella, born in Cuba, where he was initiated into the ancient rhythms of the sacred batá drum, bridged traditional Cuban rhythms with jazz, salsa, and rock. With special appearances by Pete Escovedo, Sheila E., Cachao, and other Latin music luminaries. Produced by Tom Luddy. 

FILM DETAILS 
Print Info
  • Color
  • DCP
  • 35 mins
source
  • Janus Films

Event Accessibility

If you have any questions about accessibility or require accommodations to participate in this event, please contact us at bampfa@berkeley.edu or call us at (510) 642-1412 (during open hours) with as much advance notice as possible. More information on accessibility services.