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Theatre Three

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Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket will host a Community Volunteer Fair on Wednesday, Sept. 25 from 4 to 7 p.m. 

Representatives from over a dozen organizations will be at the event including the American Red Cross, Avalon Nature Preserve, Bethel Hobbs Community Farm, Emma Clark Library’s Teen Department, Guide Dog Foundation, Last Chance Animal Rescue, Open Door Exchange, Parker Jewish Institute – Willing Hearts, Helpful Hands Program, Sisters of St. Joseph, Sweetbriar Nature Center, Theatre Three, Three Village Historical Society, Three Village Lending Aids Society and the Ward Melville Heritage Organization. 

Furthermore, there will be a table with materials from organizations who were unable to attend the fair but are also looking for volunteers. There is no registration necessary and the event is open to all. For more information, call 631-941-4080.

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Sadie Mathers as Matilda and Olivia McGourty as Erica in a scene from the show. Photo by Steve Ayle/Showbizshots
Matilda the Musical THEATRE THREE Jax Segal, Steven Uihlein, Sadie Mathers, Rachel Geiser
Matilda the Musical THEATRE THREE Will Logan, Rachel Geiser, Steven Uihlein, Will Brennan
Matilda the Musical THEATRE THREE Veronica Fox, Saide Mathers, Liam Marsigliano
Matilda the Musical THEATRE THREE Veronica Fox & Liam Marsgiliano
Matilda the Musical THEATRE THREE The Little Kids
Matilda the Musical THEATRE THREE Steven Uihlein, Jax Segal, Rachel Geiser
Matilda the Musical THEATRE THREE Sadie Mathers as Matilda
Matilda the Musical THEATRE THREE Sadie Mathers and Michelle LaBozzetta
Matilda the Musical THEATRE THREE Revolting Children
Matilda the Musical THEATRE THREE Rachel Geiser, Will Logan
Matilda the Musical THEATRE THREE Liam Marsigliano, Kathleen Han
Matilda the Musical THEATRE THREE Jax Segal, Rachel Geiser, Steven Uihlein, Will Logan
Matilda the Musical THEATRE THREE Sadie Mathers as Matilda
Matilda the Musical THEATRE THREE Sadie Mathers as Matilda & Company
Matilda the Musical THEATRE THREE clockwise Michelle LaBozzetta, Will Logan, Rachel Geiser, Steven Uihlein, Eric J. Hughes, Josie McSwane, Sadie Mathers, Veronica Fox

By Julianne Mosher

One of the last musical numbers during Theatre Three’s latest production of Matilda the Musical is called “Revolting Children,” but the cast of this show is far from it. 

Based on the beloved book by Roald Dahl and the 1996 movie starring Mara Wilson and Danny DeVito, the musical is a fun and enchanting twist that will make all ages in the audience smile. 

Written by Dennis Kelly, music and lyrics by Tim Minchin and directed by Jeffrey Sanzel, Matilda follows the story of a spectacularly smart child who lives in an unhappy home with dimwitted parents. Matilda (played by the extraordinarily talented Sadie Mathers — who is readily on the path to stardom), finds solace in the library where she reads books upon books while also sharing tales she makes up in her head to the local librarian, Mrs. Phelps (Michelle LaBozzetta).

Her family, the Wormwoods, don’t read. In fact, they’re lazy and dumb. Matilda’s father, played by Steven Uihlein, is a crooked car salesman who refuses to acknowledge the young girl as his daughter, and her mother, played by Rachel Geiser, is an amateur ballroom dancer who only cares about her looks — not her family. Matilda has a brother, Michael, played by Jax Segal, who does not speak and stares at the TV throughout the entire show, remote in hand. 

To teach her some discipline, Mr. Wormwood ships Matilda off to a private academy headed by Miss. Trunchbull (Liam Marsigliano), a former Olympian who hates children and wishes for a world without them. Luckily, Matilda and her classmates find comfort knowing their teacher, Miss Honey (Veronica Fox), loves them and tries to make their school days better despite their dreary and frightening walls.

Throughout the play, Matilda shares a tale of an escapologist (Eric J. Hughes) and his wife, the acrobat (Josie McSwane) that she makes up in her head. The characters, however, seem to match with certain people the young girl meets and encounters in her daily life.

Compared to the movie, the musical version of Matilda is set in England so the ensemble needed to not only learn the lyrics to difficult songs, but do it with a cockney accent — the child actors included. The talent of the entire cast is remarkable with its leadership from musical director Jeffrey Hoffman and choreography from Sari Feldman with dance moves and vocal ranges fit for Broadway. 

And if you’re a fan of film, you’ll be surprised with a similar plot but with different twists and turns.

From the campy costumes full of color — minus the school uniforms, of course — (designed by Jason Allyn) to the set design that integrates video using TV monitors framing the stage (Randall Parsons), the attention to detail is nothing short from extraordinary.

So, you better go see this show or else you’ll be thrown in the chokey and give this group of actors the standing ovation they continuously deserve.

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Matilda the Musical through Oct. 20. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children ages 5 to 12, $25 Wednesday matinees. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

All photos by Steve Kyle/Showbizshots

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Pink lights shine bright on Theatre Three's marquis at last year's event. Photo by Heidi Sutton

This past Monday’s storm decimated chunks of Suffolk’s North Shore. From Stony Brook, to Rocky Point, and so many towns in between, roads have collapsed, trees have fallen and homes have become boats in the street.

TBR offers our heartfelt sympathies to any person affected by this storm, in any way, and wishes to give you a beautiful example of the type of visceral human kindness that often pops up when tragedy strikes — but is never short of poignant.

Theatre Three, a beloved staple of the Port Jefferson community, was devastatingly hit by this storm that, seemingly, came out of nowhere. It was, bizarrely, not even connected to Hurricane Ernesto, which made its way along the coast.

Vivian Koutrakos, managing director of Theatre Three, said that throughout her 45-year tenure with the playhouse, she has witnessed it struck by 10 severe floods, with the worst having been in the past 10 years.

Due to this alarming trend, the basement, which has been frequently flooded, has “flood protocol” in place, like a raised washer and dryer, and items of that nature.

Well after Monday, that was all for nothing.

Chairs and tables literally floated away, and tools, machinery and cherished costumes from the playhouse’s production of “A Christmas Carol,” were drowned.

The situation looked bleak. When speaking to Koutrakos, she half-heartedly joked that she always says “she doesn’t have another flood in her.” But, with the unwavering support of empathetic neighbors, it certainly makes the load easier to bear.

In just 48 hours, locals teamed up and raised $20,000 and counting. Volunteers, actors and just concerned people, who’d heard of the theatre’s dire state, showed up with mops, and just started cleaning. And, one woman — in a display of utter compassion — who works in Queens and lives in Huntington, took the LIRR train to offer any help she could provide. Koutrakos had never seen her before.

So, while the tragic nature of this storm may leave you feeling down, disheartened and disappointed, remember the example of these local, good Samaritans, who decided to turn their heartache into a helping hand.

In the words of patriot Patrick Henry, “United we stand, divided we fall.” Remember, together we can overcome anything and everything. And the show must go on.

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Colleen Rebecca Britt

Theatre Three in Port Jefferson has announced that Colleen Rebecca Britt is the new Director of Children’s Theatre and Educational Programs.

A New York-based freelance director, actor, and teaching artist, Britt will be directing the annual productions of A Kooky Spooky Halloween, Barnaby Saves Christmas, and The Adventures of Peter Rabbit, along with other productions set for 2024-2025. Additionally, she will be taking on the Educational Touring programs, working on the existing shows and curating new works to travel to schools.

Over the course of the year, Britt will bring her vision and experience to expanding and revitalizing Theatre Three’s commitment to theatre for young audiences. She will also direct the Mainstage production of Crossing Delancey, which opens January 18, 2025.

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The 2023 cast of Theatre Three's 'A Christmas Carol'

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson will hold Young People’s auditions (ages 8–17) for its 40th annual production of the holiday classic Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol on Tuesday, Sept. 17, at 7 p.m. They will be double-casting nine roles (for a total of eighteen young people). Readings are provided. A Christmas carol (“Christmas Is Coming”) will be taught. 

Rehearsals begin late September and are weeknights (beginning at 7 p.m.); Saturdays (mornings or afternoons); and Sundays (mornings, afternoons, or evenings). Young people must appear in half of the performances, including the student matinees. Performances will be held from Nov. 9 to  Dec. 28, 2024.

For full details visit http://theatrethree.com/acc-auditions/. For more information, call 631-928-9100.

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Photo courtesy of Theatre Thre

By Tara Mae

Peace, love, and music!  Time to get your groove on and party like it’s 1969 when “Woodstockmania: Woodstock in Concert” returns to Theatre Three, 412 Main Street in Port Jefferson. The tribute concert will take the stage for the first time since 2019 on Friday, August 16, and Saturday, August 17 at 8 p.m. 

Its 17-member band includes ten instrumentalists and eight individual vocalists singing at least two songs each, covering music from the original 1969 Woodstock lineup — an experience so organically soulful its reverberations are still felt today. 

“Woodstock performances have become part of the fabric of Theatre Three. This is a group of outstanding musicians…It’s extraordinary to see these exceptionally talented artists brought together,” said Theatre Three’s Executive Artistic Director Jeffrey Sanzel.

Held on the 55th anniversary of Woodstock, “Woodstockmania” features approximately 34 numbers from 21 of the artists who played the stage at Max Yasgur’s dairy farm in Bethel, New York, including Jimi Hendrix; Sly and the Family Stone; The Who; Grateful Dead; Janis Joplin; Jefferson Airplane; Country Joe and the Fish; Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young; The Band; Santana; Sweetwater; Creedence Clearwater Revival; Joan Baez; and Joe Cocker.

“This music is from a highly creative time in our culture. There was so much varied music to become attached to; everyone could find something that resonated with themselves,” Musical Director Michael Chiusano said. 

More than just a harmonious homage, “Woodstockmania” is a musical tribute to the passionate artists whose creative contributions continue to inspire today. 

Having not performed “Woodstockmania” together in 5 years, the show is an opportunity to reconnect with friends as they honor the woman who first brought many of them together: Theatre Three’s longtime musical director Ellen Michelmore, who passed away in 2016.

“It’s a reunion of friends that have been through the fire together…Mostly though, it’s a tribute to Ellen; to keep the memory of her fresh in our minds and hearts. She was a special lady,” Chiusano said. 

Michelmore developed “Woodstockmania” from Summer of ‘69: Return to Woodstock, which she co-created with Bill Van Horn. The original musical, using songs performed at the Woodstock festival, was a hit for Theatre Three and had an off-Broadway run. 

Following that success, Michelmore organized annual Woodstock tribute concerts. After her death, the show was dubbed “Ellen Michelmore’s Woodstockmania,” according to Sanzel.

While Chiusano has added other songs and musical numbers to the show, much of its repertoire was originally chosen by Michelmore. 

Eight of the songs have been in every incarnation of the show: “Going Up the Country” by Canned Heat; “Somebody to Love” and “White Rabbit” by Jefferson Airplane; “Dance to the Music” by Sly & the Family Stone; “Star Spangled Banner” as done by Jimi Hendrix; “The Weight” by The Band; “Piece of My Heart” by Janis Joplin; “With a Little Help from My Friends” as done by Joe Cocker. 

“That era, roughly 1965 to 1975, was the golden age of pop music. It will never be like that again. I also believe that people need to be reminded of all the great tunes there were,” Chiusano said.

Tunes are not the only entities enjoying this encore; the musicians recognize it as an opportunity to embrace an era that still enraptures performers and patrons. 

“Everyone who’s ever been involved in the production always remembers it fondly when they talk to me…we’re thrilled to be a part of it,” said Theatre Three’s Artistic Associate/Director of Development Douglas Quattrock. An original company member of Summer of ‘69: Return to Woodstock, he is now in the “Woodstockmania” band as the emcee and a vocalist. 

Such consistency underscores the steadfast surety of music. Personal classics and timeless songs are the soundtrack to our lives, dependable narrators of enduring emotions. In this shared language, “Woodstockmania,” is a dialect understood by artists and attendees. If “Woodstockmania” is a celebration of legacy and life, it’s main theme may be appreciating community synchronicity. 

“I think the legacy of the show over the years is that it has brought so much joy and kept so much wonderful music alive for the audiences in our area,” Quattrock added.

“Woodstockmania” is part of Theatre Three’s annual Summer Concert Series that includes special one or two night only performances on its main stage. Tickets are $65 per person. For more information or to order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

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'Pinocchio' at Theatre Three. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
'Pinocchio' at Theatre Three. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
'Pinocchio' at Theatre Three. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
'Pinocchio' at Theatre Three. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
'Pinocchio' at Theatre Three. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
'Pinocchio' at Theatre Three. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.

Theatre Three’s Children’s Theatre closes its summer season with Pinocchio, a musical for the entire family.

Based on Carolo Collodi’s late nineteenth century Italian novel, The Adventures of Pinocchio, the story has been seen on stage and screen, both in animated and live action versions. As with all Theatre Three children’s theatre, the company creates its own musical based on the original material. Pinocchio has a book by Jeffrey Sanzel, with new songs by Jeffrey Hoffman and Douglas J. Quattrock.

Anabelle (Emilia Guzzetta), underling apprentice fairy—third class, is assigned by Ondine, Queen of the Fairies (Ginger Dalton), to help an angry and withdrawn woodcarver, Geppetto (Steven Uihlein). 

After failing to change the recluse through song, the nervous fairy teams with the energetic and outgoing Cassandra, the Enchanted Cricket (Michelle LaBozzetta). Together, they enchant a stick of wood. Hearing the wood speak, Geppetto fashions it into a wooden companion, Pinocchio (Kiernan Urso). When they realize that the puppet is alive but lacks a sense of right and wrong, they cast a spell on his nose to grow when he does not tell the truth.

Meanwhile, two wily crooks—Carpacious Cat (Gina Lardi) and Ferdinand Fox (Ryan Van Nostrand)—set up their scam “Festival El Grande” to fleece the villagers. When they discover the magic wooden boy, the pair embark on yet another scheme. 

Along with the professional acting company, Pinocchio features two dozen students from Theatre Three’s Summer Dramatic Academy.

The score features the original songs “Lovely Thoughts,” “Bad Harmony,” “You Can Count on Me,” “Taran-Tella Da Truth,” “Put Tomorrow in Your Hands,” “Keep Your Chin Up and Smile,” and the calypso “Festival El Grande.”

The production is directed by Sanzel while  Quattrock and Hoffman, who musically directed, form the two-keyboard combo. Choreography is by Kiernan Urso, costume design is by Jason Allyn and Melissa Troxler is the production stage manager.

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Pinocchio through Aug. 10. Running time is one hour with a 15 minute intermission. Photos with the cast are available in the lobby after the show. Final performances are Friday, August 9, at 11 a.m., and Saturday, August 10, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. 

Children’s theater continues with Theatre Three’s annual productions of A Kooky Spooky Halloween from Oct. 5 to 19, and and Barnaby Saves Christmas from Nov. 23 to Dec. 28. 

All seats are $12. Call the box office at 631-928-9100 or visit theatrethree.com for tickets and information. 

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Magic Al

Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for The Silly Sorcery Showcase, a magical event for the whole family, on July 21 at 2 p.m. Hosted by Mike Maione aka The Silly Magician, the fun-filled afternoon will feature  performances by juggler Keith Leaf and celebrated magician Magic Al.

Meet the magicians:

Magic Al

Magic Al

Magic Al Garber is a celebrated magician whose vibrant performances have enchanted audiences for years. With a career rooted in the art of illusion and sleight of hand, comedy, and improv, Magic Al has established himself as a beloved figure in the world of magic. His shows are a delightful blend of mystifying tricks, comedic elements, and engaging storytelling, making them a hit for audiences of all ages. From private parties and school events to corporate gatherings and public festivals, Magic Al’s versatile performances have made him a sought-after entertainer who can adapt to any audience and occasion.

One of the pinnacles of Magic Al’s illustrious career is his successful Off-Broadway show, “It’s a Magic-Al World.” This show brought his mesmerizing tricks and charismatic stage presence to one of the most prestigious platforms in the entertainment industry. “Magic Al Live!” was met with rave reviews, drawing large crowds and solidifying his status as a top-tier magician. His ability to captivate audiences in such a competitive environment speaks volumes about his talent and showmanship. New York magazine recognized this excellence by naming him “Best Kids Magician in New York”, a testament to his skill and the joy he brings to his audiences.

A hallmark of Magic Al’s performances is his ability to create a sense of wonder and excitement, leaving spectators in awe with his impressive array of tricks and illusions. Whether making objects disappear, pulling rabbits out of hats, or reading minds, Magic Al’s acts are executed with precision and flair. Through his performances and educational efforts, Magic Al entertains and inspires, fostering a new generation of magicians who share his enthusiasm and dedication to the art of illusion.

Magic Al’s mom is still disappointed that he didn’t become a doctor.

Keith Leaf

Keith Leaf is an award-winning juggler who has captivated audiences worldwide with his dynamic shows and exceptional skill. Over his extensive career, Keith has become a prominent figure in the juggling community, known for his ability to blend technical expertise with engaging showmanship. His performances are a high-energy mix of intricate juggling routines, comedic elements, and audience interaction, making each show a unique and memorable experience. From local festivals to international events, Keith’s versatile acts have earned him a reputation as a top-tier entertainer who can connect with audiences of all ages.

Keith Leaf’s performances are characterized by his use of diverse props, such as balls, clubs, rings, and even flaming torches, which showcase his extensive juggling abilities. His passion for juggling extends beyond entertaining; he is also a dedicated teacher, often conducting workshops to inspire and mentor aspiring jugglers, thereby reinforcing his commitment to the art form and its future. Keith’s client list is extensive, and he has appeared at numerous prestigious venues like New Year’s Eve in Times Square, the Metropolitan Opera House, and America’s Got Talent.

Mike Maione

Mike Maione

Mike Maione, affectionately known as the Silly Magician, will host the show. Mike is a beloved entertainer known for his unique blend of comedy and magic. With a knack for making audiences laugh while simultaneously leaving them spellbound, Mike has carved out a niche for himself in the world of family entertainment. His performances are characterized by playful humor, clever illusions, and a lively interaction with his audience. Whether performing strolling magic in small, intimate settings or on stage, Mike’s engaging style and infectious energy ensure that his shows are memorable experiences for children and adults alike.

Mike also teaches magic, offering workshops and classes to aspiring magicians. Mike is a member of the prestigious 4F. He has performed at Smoke and Mirrors Magic Theatre in Pennsylvania, The Mohegan Sun in Connecticut, The Dickens Parlour Theatre in Delaware, and on stage at the Magic Circle in London. Mike is a lecturer and magic reviewer with a large following. He is also a magic creator who designs and creates magic for other magicians.

Tickets are $20. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

See preview here.

To purchase tickets, click here.

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The cast of 'Raggedy Ann & Andy' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Raggedy Ann & Andy'. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
Isabella Scarpa and Will Logan star as 'Raggedy Amy & Andy'. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Raggedy Ann & Andy'. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Raggedy Ann & Andy'. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Raggedy Ann & Andy'. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Raggedy Ann & Andy'. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
"Jazz Hands!" A scene from 'Raggedy Ann & Andy'. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.

By Julianne Mosher

A heart-filled tale of friendship and adventure headed back to Theatre Three this week with their latest children’s theater production of Raggedy Ann & Andy — also known as “Friends and Friends and Friends.”

Based off of characters created by Johnny Gruelle, this special and unique tale, written by Jeffrey Sanzel and Kevin Story, brings these two lovable rag dolls to life in a comical musical that the family is sure to enjoy.

Directed by Sanzel with musical direction by Doug Quattrock, the show starts off at the Tiwilliger sisters’ toy shop where they specialize in creating toys that come to life to bring joy to children in need. They hear of a little girl named Marcella who is ill and decide to make a brother for one of their favorite toys, Raggedy Ann (played by Isabella Scarpa), named Andy (Will Logan).

However, the toymakers, Martha (Gina Lardi) and Abby (Louisa Bikowski) have an evil brother, Mortimer (Steven Uihlein) who wants to use his family’s magic selfishly and to not use it to help local boys and girls. Casting a spell and with the help of his (reluctant) sidekick Rose Carpet (Emilia Guzzetta), the evil Mortimer steals Andy’s heart and the toys team up to get it back.

With the help of the tin soldier (Jason Furnari), the clown (Ryan Van Nostrand), the lion (Liam Marsigliano) and the queen doll (Julia Albino), the group heads to find Mortimor and retrieve Andy’s heart. Through a quest full of twists and turns, the audience waits to see if Andy will go back to his lovable self so he and Ann could help Marcella feel better.

Choreographed by Josie McSwane, the show is full of catchy tunes with themes of friendship, loyalty and love as the actors dance along. This musical will also show children the importance of friendship and how it’s nice to help when a friend is in need. 

And the best part is, while the show is geared for younger audiences, adults can reminisce about their own childhood toys thanks to Jason Allyn’s costume design — Raggedy Ann and Andy’s outfits are to a T, looking as if they just came off the shelves at the store.  Plus, the cast is available in the lobby after the show for photos. It’s a great afternoon out that is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s faces.

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Raggedy Ann & Andy on Fridays and Saturdays at 11 a.m. through July 27. Children’s theater continues with Pinocchio from Aug. 2 to Aug. 10 and A Kooky Spooky Halloween from Oct. 5 to Oct. 19. All seats are $12. 

Theatre Three will also present a special program, The Silly Sorcery Showcase on July 21 at 2 p.m.  Tickets are $20. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

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Catch a screening of the award-winning documentary 'Honorable But Broken' at Theatre Three on July 11 at 6 p.m.

By Julianne Mosher

A new documentary created by a former producer for ABC News and 60 Minutes, and with the help of different EMS groups across New York State, is heading to Port Jefferson next week for a free viewing of a powerful film that will remind people how important rescue services are. 

Michael Presta, deputy chief at Port Jefferson EMS, said he received a LinkedIn message from the film’s director and producer, Bryony Gilbey, asking if her 2023 award-winning documentary, Honorable But Broken: EMS in Crisis, could be shown in the area.

Catch a screening of the award-winning documentary ‘Honorable But Broken’ at Theatre Three on July 11 at 6 p.m.

After connecting with the Greater Port Jefferson Arts Council and Theatre Three, Presta was able to help get the film to play on Thursday, July 11 at 6 p.m. — for free — and for the first time on Long Island.

Gilbey, whose three children are EMS workers, developed the film after hearing the stories about what it was like being in emergency services pre, during and post COVID-19, plus the lack of funding these operations receive from the state and federal governments. The documentary was shot on location with EMS crews in Ossining, New York, and Montclair, New Jersey.

“The film has been circling the state for about a year now and it shows the challenges of delivering EMS services to the public,” Presta said, adding that local elected officials have been invited to attend.

“It helps paint a picture to the public and our politicians on what delivering EMS services in 2024 is like,” Presta added.

He noted that the Port Jefferson EMS helps and protects all of Port Jefferson and its surrounding communities including Mount Sinai and the Village of Port Jefferson, while also lending support to other local areas. 

When Presta started his career in Port Jefferson almost two decades ago, on average there were less than 1,000 calls per year. Now, he said, they’re around 3,500.

“It’s getting harder with rising costs to deliver EMS, not just here, but everywhere. Funding is needed to support that number of calls,” he said. “This movie will give people insight.”

Narrated by Sarah Jessica Parker, the goal of the documentary is to, “raise awareness of the systemic collapse of EMS and to advocate for change. Shockingly, most states don’t mandate the provision of EMS, so funding is unpredictable and inadequate. There is a critical workforce shortage, particularly in rural areas, which in turn has led to much longer response times.”

The goal, the documentary’s official website says, is to eventually get the film onto a streaming service so everyone can see it. On the film’s official website, people can donate to help fund that endeavor, as well.

And while Honorable But Broken is not part of the Port Jefferson Documentary Series, Kelly DeVine, head programmer of the series, said that when Presta approached her and Allan Varela, president of the Greater Port Jefferson Arts Council, looking for help, both groups jumped to volunteer their resources. 

Working alongside Theatre Three, the arts council offered to lend the theatre their personal movie screen so that the film could be played at the venue.

“The Port Jefferson Documentary Series is focused on bringing high-quality films normally only seen at top festivals or art house screens to our audiences and curating those titles to support our community partners and create impactful communal experiences,” DeVine said. 

As for other films coming to Port Jefferson, the documentary series is moving to a new venue and day of the week. The Methodist Church on Main Street across from Theatre Three will now show its films on Thursdays starting in September.

Theatre Three is located at 412 Main Street in Port Jefferson. The screening is free and no reservations are required. For more information, call 631-928-9100. 

For more information on Honorable But Broken: EMS in Crisis, visit www.honorablebutbroken.org.

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