Join the Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition and Rising Hearts for an inspiring evening of storytelling, community, and conversation as we screen two powerful films exploring identity, resilience, and the ways bikes and trails can reconnect us to culture, place, and one another.
Thursday, July 30
5:30-7:30 PM
Court Square Theater | 41-F Court Square, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Hosted by the Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition and Rising Hearts
In the Dirt: Feature Documentary (45 min)
In the Dirt follows a passionate group of Native American cyclists working to introduce mountain biking to the Navajo Nation, where there are no bike shops and limited access to the sport. Through determination, community organizing, and a love of riding, they demonstrate how bicycles can become powerful tools for connection, opportunity, and cultural pride. The film highlights the challenges of expanding outdoor recreation while celebrating the people creating lasting change from within their own communities.
Run in Beauty: Short Documentary (15 min)
Created by filmmakers Devin and Jordan Whetstone, Run in Beauty follows Alex Staten, a Dine woman who feels disconnected from her cultural roots as she prepares for the iconic Western States 100-mile endurance run. Guided by her grandmother’s wisdom, Alex embarks on a journey that intertwines running with ceremony, identity, and healing, discovering what it truly means to “run in beauty.”
Stay for the Conversation
Following the films, enjoy a live performance by Indigenous drummers and singers Lance Fisher and Giovanna Coronado, followed by a panel discussion featuring:
- Alex Staten, featured in Run in Beauty
- Jordan Whetstone, filmmaker
- Devin Whetstone, filmmaker
Hear firsthand about the stories behind the films, the role of outdoor recreation in Indigenous communities, and the importance of representation, culture, and belonging.
Keep the Evening Going
After the screening, join us at Capital Ale House for a community after-party! Rising Hearts is generously sponsoring the first $1,000 of food and drinks, giving everyone a chance to continue the conversation, connect with fellow attendees, and celebrate an evening of film, culture, and community.
Whether you ride, run, or just love a good story, this is a night worth clearing your calendar for. Come be inspired by people using movement, culture, and community to create lasting change.
Bring a friend, the more of us in the room, the richer the conversation and the stronger our community gets. We hope to see you at Court Square Theater on July 30.
