Directed by Margie Friedman, Barbara Multer-Wellin • Documentary • 2021 • 85 minutes
ORCHESTRATING CHANGE is the feature- length documentary film that tells the inspiring story of Me2/Orchestra, the only orchestra in the world created by and for people living with mental illness and those who support them. The orchestra's mission is to erase the stigmatization of people living with mental illness through the creation of beautiful music, community, compassion and understanding... one concert at a time. Most important, it is changing the lives of the musicians and audiences in ways they never imagined.
With compelling characters, striking animation, even humor, ORCHESTRATING CHANGE addresses many of the myths about mental illness by showing what living with a mental illness is really like -- with both setbacks and accomplishments. The film challenges audiences to reconsider their preconceived notions about mental illness. For those living with a diagnosis, it is empowering.
The film culminates in an extraordinary concert that is a triumph for Me2/Orchestra's conductor, who lives with bipolar disorder and thought he might never conduct again, and for the musicians, their families and the audience.
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