Adding to this tremendous effort, Minnesota native Joe Lueben,  25, has written and directed a short film to be screened at 10:30pm this Friday night at Speakeasy.  The 10-minute piece, titled Recess, starring Colorado resident Rachel Payne, 23, is a project that began over a year ago.  It began with the desire to portray a day in the life of a foreign teacher living in Gwangju.

Though the original screenplay was filled with many innocent preconceptions of Korea, the final cut is a poignant work that will resonate within the lives of every foreign teacher. Gwangju locals can enjoy an intimate view into the life of a foreigner, and the vibrant backdrop of the city many of us have come to call home. 

The choice to hold the screening of Recess at Speakeasy is certainly deliberate.  Speakeasy has continued to welcome many new foreigners to Gwangju since it’s opening in 2006, giving them their first taste of the local nightlife. Thus, it has become iconic to foreigners and locals alike.  In this way, the venue, as much as the event, is a reflection of the community that has supported the creative arts in Gwangju. 

This event is free of charge to all patrons, but donations are encouraged.  All of the proceeds will be donated to a local orphanage to provide each of the girls with a Megabox movie ticket.  Join us this Friday night at 10:30pm at Speakeasy to promote the art scene of Gwangju for a fantastic cause.  

By: Anna J. Martinez