(SOUTH ORANGE, NJ) -- In its first public screening since premiering on PBS stations earlier this year, Kevin McLaughlin's Riot: From Rebellion to Redemption will show the Director's Cut at South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 7:30pm. The special edition contains 23 minutes of compelling material not included in the broadcast version, followed by a live conversation with the people behind the film.
The documentary examines the causes and effects of the 1967 Newark Riot/Rebellion, weaving together history, testimony, and reflection to illuminate a chapter that continues to shape the city today.
Stay after the screening for a conversation with director Kevin McLaughlin and renowned journalist Michelle Miller — a multiple Emmy and Edward R. Murrow Award winner — as they discuss the making of the film and its enduring relevance.
Tickets to the screening are $10 and available for purchase online. South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) is located at One SOPAC Way in South Orange, New Jersey.
New Jersey Stage first spoke with Kevin McLaughlin back in 2016 when the film was just starting to have screenings at film festivals. The documentary reached one of the ultimate goals earlier this year - screanings on PBS. We caught up with the filmmaker in February to talk about the film's journey. That interview is available here.
