Childhood literacy spotlighted in documentary about ‘Reading Rainbow’ at The Neon

A new documentary film, “Butterfly in the Sky,” is set to premiere at the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival. The film focuses on the creation of the beloved children’s television show, “Reading Rainbow,” and the challenges faced by LeVar Burton and the creators as they advocated for childhood literacy on screen. Featuring archival footage and interviews with Burton, guest star and executive producer Whoopi Goldberg, and “Reading Rainbow” co-creator Twila Liggett, the documentary offers a behind-the-scenes look at the show’s impact.

Following the premiere, there will be a special one-time screening of the film, followed by a panel discussion on childhood literacy. The panel will include Trey Clements, assistant professor at Sinclair Community College, Allison Knight, youth services and programming director at the Dayton Metro Library, and Dr. Mary-Kate Sableski, Leary Chair for Innovation in Education, Health, and Wellness at the University of Dayton.

The screening of “Butterfly in the Sky” will take place at The Neon in Dayton on April 28 at 5 p.m. Tickets are priced at .50, and more information can be found on neonmovies.com. This event provides a unique opportunity to learn more about the impact of “Reading Rainbow” and the importance of childhood literacy.