Sedona News – On September 13, 2024, the Sedona Sister Cities Association, in partnership with the Polish American Friends of Jasło, will host the Sedona premiere of the powerful Polish film “Raze to the Ground,” directed by Marcin Głowacki. This event marks the first artistic exchange with potential Sister City Jasło, Poland, and coincides with the global premiere of the film in Jasło.
The film will debut in Jasło before an audience of 400, including Mayor Adam Kostrzab, as part of the 80th-anniversary remembrance of the tragic destruction of the city during World War II. Sedona has been invited to join in this important commemoration, reflecting the growing cultural ties between our communities.
The Sedona premiere will take place at 9 AM on September 13 at the Mary D. Fisher Theater. The event is free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy traditional Polish pastries and coffee starting at 8:30 AM.
Raze to the Ground is a dramatized documentary that commemorates the 80th anniversary of the destruction of Jasło and the 85th anniversary of Nazi Germany’s invasion of Poland. The film, produced by Bogdan Miszczak and directed by Marcin Głowacki, delves into the historical events that led to the obliteration of nearly 97% of Jasło under the orders of Dr. Walter Gentz, a German physician and SS officer. As the Soviet Army advanced in late 1944, Gentz commanded the complete destruction of the town, leaving behind a haunting legacy of war crimes.
The Sedona Sister Cities Association and the Polish American Friends of Jasło are proud to sponsor this significant cultural event, which aims to foster understanding and remembrance of shared history while strengthening the bonds between Sedona and Jasło.
Event Details:
- What: Sedona Premiere of “Raze to the Ground”
- When: September 13, 2024
- 8:30 AM – Polish Pastries and Coffee
- 9:00 AM – Film Screening
- Where: Mary D. Fisher Theater, Sedona, AZ
- Admission: Free and open to the public