
05/22/2025
Overjoyed to be sharing the teaser for my documentary "Resilient Roots."
In September 2024, Hurricane Helene ravaged Appalachia, leaving behind catastrophic destruction and economic turmoil. Echoing the 1916 flood, the community has united to rebuild, drawing strength from its deep cultural roots. Amid the wreckage, three women from one family tree and an unbroken oral tradition—eighth-generation ballad singers and keepers of Appalachian folkmusic—are using centuries-old songs to heal the people of the mountains, preserve their heritage, and stand resilient against the rising waters.
Featuring:
Sheila Kay Adams
Donna Ray Swann
Melanie Rice
Sarah Songbird Burkey
Initial funding provided by the NC Department of Natural & Cultural Resources
Fiscal sponsorship provided by the Alan Lomax Archive at the Association for Cultural Equity
I'm currently raising funds to finish the film, so please connect if you have ideas or would like to contribute.
https://vimeo.com/archerfish/resilientroots
Special thanks to Aran Sweater Market Ireland for the beautiful sweaters.
In September 2024, Hurricane Helene ravaged Appalachia, leaving behind catastrophic destruction and economic turmoil. Echoing the 1916 flood, the community has united…