New documentary sheds light on Joan Baez's personal life, at Kay Meek Arts Centre May 13

Joan Baez: I am a Noise draws from a vast archive that includes newly discovered home movies

Kay Meek Arts Centre presents Joan Baez: I am a Noise on May 13 from 7 to 9 pm

JOAN BAEZ IS known around the world for her music as much as her social activism, but less has generally been reported about her private life—until now. A new film offers a closer look at the iconic folk singer’s personal side.

Joan Baez: I Am A Noise is an intimate psychological portrait of the artist. It draws from a vast archive that includes newly discovered home movies, diaries, artwork, and audio recordings. Baez opens up about her life on and offstage. Think lifelong emotional challenges, civil rights work with Martin Luther King, a crushing romance with a young Bob Dylan, and more.

Directed by Karen O'Connor, Miri Navasky, and Maeve O'Boyle, the 113-minute documentary sheds new light on the musician who was known as the “queen of folk” and who was a pioneer in using celebrity to fight for justice.

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Gail Johnson

Gail Johnson is cofounder and associate editor of Stir. She is a Vancouver-based journalist who has earned local and national nominations and awards for her work. She is a certified Gladue Report writer via Indigenous Perspectives Society in partnership with Royal Roads University and is a member of a judging panel for top Vancouver restaurants.

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