Rooted, a 75-minute documentary about the transformation of Bethlehem from a steel town to an arts town, will be screened twice this October, each followed by conversations that deepen the story.
After premiering at the SouthSide Film Festival and earning a nomination for Best Documentary at the Newark International Film Festival, Rooted continues to spark discussion about the city’s creative rebirth. The film draws from more than 200 hours of interviews, archival footage, music, and photographs, weaving together the voices of the artists who helped shape Bethlehem’s cultural identity.
Upcoming Screenings
Monday, October 13, 2025 • 7:00 pm
Frank Banko Alehouse Cinema, SteelStacks
Free admission (donations welcome)
Followed by a discussion with Doug Roysdon (Mock Turtle Marionette Theatre), Dave Fry (Godfrey Daniels), Bridget George (Bach Choir / Touchstone Theatre), and Bill George (Touchstone Theatre).
Thursday, October 30, 2025 • 2:00 pm (screening) | 6:30 pm (panel)
Linderman Library, Room 200, Lehigh University
Free and open to the public
Panelists and details to be announced soon.
ArtsQuest programming officer Patrick Brogan called the screenings “a wonderful opportunity to present these artists’ work at this historic site.”
The Story Behind the Film
Directed by Aidan Gilrain McKenna, filming began in 2024 with tree-planting ceremonies across Bethlehem to honor artists and the places where their work took root. Narrated by arborist Anisa George, daughter of Bill and Bridget George, the film uses the metaphor of trees to show how art became deeply embedded in the community. John Gorka’s folk song “Branching Out” provides a recurring theme.
The documentary also highlights how Bethlehem’s artistic community blossomed during the decline of steelmaking in the 1970s, giving rise to cultural nonprofits, galleries, festivals, and small businesses that continue to shape the city today.
Support and Legacy
Funding efforts to distribute Rooted are ongoing through the Kingfisher Theatre website. The film will also be preserved in Lehigh University’s Special Collections to ensure future generations can access Bethlehem’s arts story.
Podcast Feature
Earlier this year, the Lehigh Valley with Love podcast featured Rooted in an episode exploring its origins and impact. The conversation with Bill George, Doug Roysdon, and Dave Fry offers a behind-the-scenes look at the project. Listen here: Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast.
