Three video portraits of local citizens creating new opportunities and connections through the space created by the Madison Mercantile will be premiered.
The premiere of the new Prairie Tales video series produced by the Madison Mercantile will take place on Friday, November 22 with doors opening at 6:00 p.m. and the discussion and screening to begin at 7:00 p.m. The event is free and open to the public with those attending invited to dress for the “red carpet” photo opportunity at the entrance.
The Prairie Tales video series, which will be hosted on YouTube, highlights area community members who have used the Madison Mercantile as a space to make new connections, launch new initiatives and foster the arts.
The premiere will include the first three subjects:
Kelvin’s Garden: A local man overcomes challenge and adversity, with the help of friends and community he finds happiness and purpose.
Prairie Eco-Links: A legacy of stewardship is passed to a new generation while building a new community at the same time.
Charlie Roth: Hometown singer/songwriter Charlie Roth talks about bringing some of his fellow musicians from around the world to Madison.
“We made this channel to show some of the terrific solutions that have been generated in our area. Whenever we see a terrific opportunity or problem that needs addressing, this is a place where look around to see who can tackle it right here in our community and get it done,” shared Kris Shelstad, Executive Director of the Madison Arts and Innovation Center, housed within the Madison Mercantile. “We hope people watch this series and see how they can do the same in their town…or, selfishly, want to move here to Madison and be a part of what we have going on.”
The launch party will also feature a community feedback opportunity for those attending to pitch their ideas on what stories can be covered in future episodes. The project’s goal is the launch three new videos each quarter, which will be distributed on both the YouTube channel as well as social media platforms.
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The Madison Art and Innovation Center - known as The Madison Mercantile - is a welcoming, accessible and multi-functional space responsive to community needs. The Center includes an Art Gallery, Stage, Music Room, Community Workshop, Classrooms, Studios, Offices, Wellness Room and common use spaces for gathering, growing and learning. The Center operates a for-profit coffee house and gift shop. The center provides opportunity and programs for all area residents.