The experimental documentary The Tuba Thieves is about deaf storytelling and the very nature of sound and listening.
Independent Lens: The Tuba Thieves airs Tuesday, January 14 at 2 p.m. on WXXI-WORLD
The Tuba Thieves: Between 2011 and 2013, tubas were stolen from high schools across Southern California. Against this backdrop, hard of hearing filmmaker Alison O’Daniel generates new sensitivity to sound and meaning in an unconventional documentary experience. What does it mean to listen? An exploration of musicality set against a theft. The central mystery of this unconventional documentary isn’t about theft; it’s about the nature of sound itself.
This program is presented as part of Dialogue on Disability, a partnership between WXXI and Al Sigl Community of Agencies – in conjunction with the Herman and Margaret Schwartz Community Series. Dialogue on Disability is supported by the Fred L. Emerson Foundation with additional support from The Golisano Foundation. The weeklong initiative runs January 13-19, 2025
WXXI and Al Sigl have been hosting Dialogue on Disability since 2005. In 2014, with the support of businessman and philanthropist Tom Golisano and the Golisano Foundation, Move to Include™ was formed. This initiative enables WXXI to present and develop programming that promotes inclusion year round.
Watch the Extended Trailer:
More About the Film at PBS Independent Lens: The Tuba Thieves
Learn More: ITVS Film Website
