NEWSLETTER
Beacon, NY - Thursday, August 6, 2026 – The Bannerman Castle Trust (BCT) presents Modern Silent Shorts (MSS) on historic Bannerman Island. Experience a unique cinematic summer evening that bridges the gap between classic history and modern creativity, showcasing the medium of modern silent films. Modern Silent Shorts and the Bannerman Castle Trust present a special screening that is part film festival and part live concert at the legendary ruins of Bannerman Island. During this event, curated contemporary silent short films are presented with an exciting live musical score. The night features films from some of today's most exciting emerging filmmakers for an evening of visual storytelling in its purest form!
First established in 2023 by philanthropist Boykin Curry, Modern Silent Shorts is an organization that commissions film directors to tell stories through cinema's “original form,” with striking visuals but with no spoken dialogue. These aren’t archival films from a century ago; they are brand-new works that explore modern themes through a silent lens. The experience is elevated by a live musical score, performed on-site alongside the films. Watching these new works against the dramatic backdrop of the Hudson Highlands and the historic castle ruins makes for an atmosphere you won’t find at any suburban multiplex – it's a magical night that attendees will never forget.
Producer/filmmaker Lily Weisberg and producer/writer Michael Bloom founded Modern Silent Shorts alongside Boykin Curry in 2023. They have now produced over 12 silent short films. Lily is also a director, and her most recent film, “Rare Birds,” premiered at the 2026 Tribeca Festival. Michael wrote and produced Rare Birds, and is currently in post-production as a producer on the feature film “Living History” a documentary about the town of Virginia City.
In addition to collaborating with Modern Silent Shorts and other filmmakers, composer and multi-instrumentalist Kevin McDonald produces and releases his own music - including a new EP he released in late 2025. Additionally, Kevin recently scored the feature film “Caity” (directed by MSS alum Lindsay Calleran), which also played in competition at the 2026 Tribeca Festival.
Together, Lily Weisberg, Michael Bloom, and Composer Kevin Donald (all of NYC) have put together an incredible presentation featuring a variety of short films - from drama to horror to slapstick. The films showcase the talents of directors whose films have been recognized and included in major national and international festivals and competitions.
All attendees will begin the evening by boarding the BCT’s tour boat, the Estuary Steward at either 6:00 or 7:00pm, where they will enjoy a scenic 24-minute cruise through the Hudson Highlands to Bannerman’s Island. Attendees will have an opportunity to attend a tour or lecture with a tour guide depending on their 6:00 or 7:00pm boat departure time. The film presentation begins at around 8:00pm on the island’s stage and screen!
The public is encouraged to enjoy this unforgettable cinematic evening, giving them the chance to re-examine the medium’s original form through a contemporary lens, magnificently set against the beautiful backdrop of the Hudson Highlands. An island concession stand of assorted beverages, sandwiches, snacks, candy and popcorn is located near the stage.
Book your tickets online at: bannermancastle.org.
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