Amplifying Voices Film Festival Returns to Beverly: A Powerful Celebration of Diversity in Storytelling
The historic Cabot Theater in Beverly, MA is set to host the 2025 Amplifying Voices Film Festival on January 31st and February 1st, bringing together an extraordinary collection of films that showcase the experiences, struggles, and triumphs of People of Color. This two-day celebration of cinema, curated by Sabrina Avilés and Lisa Simmons—the respective Executive Directors of CineFest Latino Boston and The Roxbury International Film Festival—promises to deliver powerful narratives that challenge, inspire, and spark important conversations.
Opening Night: A Story of Political Courage
The festival kicks off with “IGUALADA,” a compelling documentary that follows Francia Márquez, a Black Colombian rural activist who dares to challenge the political establishment in one of Latin America’s most unequal societies. Director Juan Mejía Botero will be present for a post-screening discussion moderated by Sabrina Avilés, offering audiences a unique opportunity to delve deeper into this story of resilience and determination. This film is co-presented by Salem Film Fest.
A Journey Through Struggle and Strength
Saturday’s programming features two carefully curated shorts programs. The “Strength” program includes powerful works like “Expanding Sanctuary,” which chronicles an immigrant community’s successful fight against ICE in Philadelphia, and “How To Sue The Klan,” documenting the groundbreaking 1982 civil case in which five Black women from Chattanooga took on the Ku Klux Klan.
The “Struggle” program presents unique perspectives on historical resistance and resilience, including “Boxed,” a dramatic retelling of Henry “Box” Brown’s extraordinary escape from slavery, and “Ghost in America’s Kitchen,” which uncovers the remarkable story of James Hemings, America’s first classically trained chef and an enslaved man who helped shape American cuisine.
Closing Night: Art as Transformation
The festival concludes with “SING SING,” a moving narrative feature about Divine G, wrongfully imprisoned at Sing Sing, who finds purpose and healing through theater. This compelling story is a testament to the transformative power of art.
Community Collaboration
This celebration of diverse voices is made possible through partnerships with the North Shore Juneteenth Association, Salem State University, Montserrat College of Art, Endicott College, North Shore Community College, and the City of Beverly.
Accessibility
In keeping with its mission of making these important stories accessible to all, the festival offers free admission to students, seniors, veterans, and EBT cardholders.
The Cabot has also generously offered complimentary tickets to Creative Collective members (while supplies last). Please email alyssa@creativecollectivema.com for instructions on how to access this offer.
The 2025 Amplifying Voices Film Festival represents more than just a series of film screenings—it’s a vital platform for dialogue, understanding, and community building. As The Cabot enters its 103rd year of operation, this festival marks an important new chapter in its commitment to inclusive storytelling and community engagement.
For more information about the festival and to purchase tickets, visit The Cabot’s website or contact the theater at 978-927-3100.
