Historian Bayne to Speak on Documentary 'Show People'

Upcoming events concerning Bayne's work-in-progess include salons,presentations and fundraisers which address people of color who were exhibited as exotics and savages.

Washington (PRWEB) June 12, 2006 -- Historian Bijan C. Bayne, best known for his work on professional basketball and early Black baseball, is scheduling speaking appearances, salons and fundraisers on his upcoming documentary "Show People". Award-winning cinematographer and producer Vic Losick ("Piano Blues", "The Trials of Alger Hiss")will shoot the film,the first to focus on cases of non-whites who were displayed as exotics or curiosities. The events will range from informal gatherings in homes to slide presentations in auditoriums. Radio guest prospects are also being considered. Such discussion of ethnic exhibition will enlighten audiences to the prevalence of the practice, and some will serve as film fundraisers. Kefa Cafe in Silver Spring, Md. will be the site of the director's presentation on a September Friday to be named, though events will be scheduled throughout the U.S.

Bayne is the author of "Sky Kings: Black Pioneers of Professional Basketball". His essays appear in the books "Between Race and Empire", "Basketball in America:From The Playgrounds to Jordan's Game", and "Baseball in the Carolinas". He has taught, lectured or given readings on subjects from the business of music to using sports books to engage young pupils. Bayne won a Robert Peterson Research Award from the Society of Baseball History's Negro League Committee.

At every World's Fair into the 1920's, one could visit a human exhibit (called a "village")of peoples of color, from Filipino to pygmy to Native American. Since the time of Columbus, and likely before, spectators, scientists, and royalty have viewed exhibitions, stage "acts", or traveling shows in which humans were displayed as odd or savage foreigners. Through narrative, interview, and archival imagery, "Show People" will tell this story. The film covers well-documented instances such as "The Venus Hottentot" and "The Siamese Twins", as well as lesser-known cases, some displayed posthumously, dating into the 1990's. Those interested in hosting Bayne, or tailoring an event to their own setting or audience, may phone or e-mail him.

For more information contact:
Bijan C. Bayne, Reel History,(513) 515-3602, or see www.bbayne.com

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