In Conversation: A Black Film Renaissance

Door Time: 01:30pm. Important Message Seating is by General Admission. There is no late seating. Please arrive early. Late comers will be seated at the discretion of house management. There is an overall 4 ticket limit per household for this event. Citi is the preferred card of The Apollo Stages at The Victoria.
This program celebrates the nearly 30-year partnership between the American Black Film Festival and HBOs Short Film Competition, one of the most influential platforms for the discovery and advancement of Black filmmakers, and a rare example of a sustained collaboration between a major media corporation and a Black-owned cultural institution. Featuring ABFF Founder Jeff Friday, HBO/Warner Bros. Discoverys Dennis Williams, and distinguished alumni of the competition, Steven Caple, Jr. (Creed II and Transformers: Rise of the Beasts) and Christine Swanson (The Clark Sisters: The First Ladies of Gospel and All American: Homecoming), the conversation reflects on how long-term access, creative risk-taking, and shared commitment helped spark a modern renaissance in Black storytelling across film and television. Both a tribute to legacy and a look forward, this program honors the enduring power of opportunity, partnership, and belief in shaping careers and expanding cultural impact.

- Main Box Office: (212) 531-5305
- Administrative Office: (212) 531-5300

- Located at main box office entrance
- Valid photo ID required for pickup
- Tickets available 1 hour before showtime
- Unclaimed tickets released 15 minutes before performance

- Limited street parking available
- Nearby public parking garages within 2-3 blocks
- Recommended to use public transportation (subway, bus)

- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Companion seats adjacent to wheelchair spaces
- Assistive listening devices available
- Service animal friendly

- No outside food or beverages
- Photography and recording prohibited during performances
- Late seating during appropriate breaks
- Business casual attire recommended

- Children 5 and older permitted
- Children under 5 not recommended for most performances
- Parental discretion advised
- Some shows may have specific age restrictions