Since making its film debut in Romeo & Juliet in 1908, Central Park has been featured in over 250 films. 2011 marks the 9th year for the Central Park Film Festival and this year's theme is "Great Music." From rock to country, the films will celebrate great musicians and the best in popular music, with each night showcasing an American musical icon.
Movies begin at 8 p.m. on the landscape north of Sheep Meadow behind the cafe (mid-park at 69th Street) in Central Park. Gates open at 6:30 p.m.
Directions: Enter Central Park at 72nd Street on Fifth Avenue or Central Park West (Central Park Map)
2011 Central Park Film Festival Schedule
- Tuesday, August 23: El Cantante (2006)
The life story of Hector Lavoe, who started the salsa movement in 1975 and brought it to the United States. Starring Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony. - Wednesday, August 24: Bird (1988)
The troubled life and career of legendary jazz musician, Charlie "Bird" Parker. Starring Forest Whitaker, Diane Venora, and Michael Zelniker. - Thursday, August 25: Dreamgirls (2006)
Based on the Broadway musical, a trio of black female soul singers crosses over to the pop charts in the early 1960's. Starring Beyonce Knowles, Jennifer Hudson, Jamie Foxx and Eddie Murphy. - Friday, August 26: Shine a Light (2008)
A career-spanning documentary on the legendary rock group, the Rolling Stones. Directed by Martin Scorsese, the film includes concert footage from the band's "A Bigger Bang" tour. - Saturday, August 27: Viewer's Choice Night
