Childhood dream becomes a reality for Naperville filmmaker Keith Kelly
Sometimes our childhood dreams do come true. They did for Keith Kelly, director of the award-winning feature length documentary, "Showing Up: Dare to Live from Your Heart."
Kelly says, “I was born to tell stories.” He started his life's work when he stepped on stage at age 6. Well, not actually a stage. It was his front porch. He and brother Kevin created “The Free Show.” Neighborhood children gathered on their porch. Keith and Kevin would then entertain and amaze their audience.
Hard to believe from that humble beginning Kelly became an award-winning director.
He won director for best documentary at the Star City Film Festival in Iowa. The film's success did not stop there. It has won recognition both nationally and internationally. The documentary is touching hearts and opening minds.
It will be featured in the "Meditation on Your Life" workshop on Sunday, Oct. 22, from 1 to 5:30 p.m. at the Theosophical Society in Wheaton. Tickets and more information at Eventbrite bit.ly/3qL129J.
What was the path that led to Kelly's success?
Well, as he discovered our dreams rarely run in a straight line.
His entertainment and storytelling journey took him in many directions. He started his media career in radio. He was a DJ of a Top 40 rock station in Central Illinois. Later, he put on his writer's hat and became a movie critic as part of Naperville Sun's “Popcorn Panel”. Kelly is also a professional on-camera actor. He has appeared in over 60 films, TV shows, and commercials.
Kelly has a degree in broadcast production from Bradley University. That was an important step in his journey. He is now an Instructor at the Illinois Media School. He is helping the next generation find their dream in the world of media.
Kelly understands the power of telling a good story. He says, “Stories can heal a soul, and inspire greatness. Without stories, we would live in a cold, empty world and struggle to make sense of our journey.”
His respect for the potential in storytelling led him to form his own production company. Since 1990, Innovative Communications has helped hundreds of companies, from solo entrepreneurs to billion-dollar corporations, effectively tell their stories.
Writer and producer Nancy Hill tapped Keith to be director, cinematographer and editor of "Showing Up: Dare to Live from Your Heart." Hill discovered Kelly through a short documentary he created about Hurricane Katrina and rebuilding of the Ninth Ward in New Orleans. She was moved and impressed by his ability to capture the audience's attention and tell a profound story. This made him a perfect choice for this project.
Keith Kelly and Nancy Hill hope you will join them on Oct. 22 for the "Meditation on Your Life" workshop. You will view the film.
Stacey Hurst, a movement therapist, will lead you in gentle movements that tap into your heart's wisdom. Movements will be accompanied by live meditative violin music by Jennifer Lowe and her CoverGirls' team. Who knows what might be revealed when you listen to your heart?
Tickets and more information are at Eventbrite, bit.ly/3qL129J.