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Sloss Furnace to Screen 'The Magic City: Birmingham According to Sun Ra'
The documentary film explores the influence of Birmingham, Alabama on the legendary jazz musician Sun Ra.
Apr. 1, 2026 at 4:26am
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On Thursday, Sloss Furnace in Birmingham, Alabama will host a screening of the documentary film 'The Magic City: Birmingham According to Sun Ra'. The film explores the influence of the city of Birmingham on the legendary jazz musician Sun Ra, who was born in the city and incorporated its imagery and mythology into his avant-garde musical performances and persona.
Why it matters
Sun Ra was a pioneering and influential figure in jazz music, known for his cosmic, Afrofuturist style. The documentary provides insight into how his Birmingham roots shaped his unique artistic vision and legacy. The screening at the historic Sloss Furnace site further connects Sun Ra's work to the industrial and cultural heritage of the city.
The details
The documentary film 'The Magic City: Birmingham According to Sun Ra' examines how the city of Birmingham, Alabama influenced the legendary jazz musician Sun Ra and his avant-garde musical style. Sun Ra, born Herman Poole Blount, grew up in Birmingham and incorporated the city's imagery, mythology, and industrial landscape into his cosmic, Afrofuturist performances.
- The screening of 'The Magic City: Birmingham According to Sun Ra' will take place on Thursday, April 3, 2026 at Sloss Furnace in Birmingham.
The players
Sun Ra
A pioneering jazz musician known for his Afrofuturist, cosmic musical style who was born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama.
Sloss Furnace
A historic industrial site in Birmingham, Alabama that is now a museum and event venue.
The takeaway
The screening of 'The Magic City: Birmingham According to Sun Ra' at the historic Sloss Furnace site provides an opportunity for the city of Birmingham to celebrate its cultural legacy and the enduring influence of one of its most innovative native sons, the pioneering jazz musician Sun Ra.
