A documentary about Brigitte Kassa, an early pioneer of Little Cayman, will be shown at the Camana Bay Cinema on Saturday, 11 May, as a fundraiser for the National Trust for the Cayman Islands.
Author, philanthropist and conservationist Kassa, 85, who is the oldest resident in Little Cayman, having lived on the island since the 1970s, has been a staunch supporter of the National Trust for many years.
Lionfish University filmmakers James V. Hart and Stacy Frank produced the 35-minute film ‘Paradise Found’, which was shot by Frans De Backer. It premiered on Little Cayman in January.
The documentary is based on Kassa’s autobiography ‘From Coffee to Champagne to Coconuts’.
Frank, who features in the documentary interviewing Kassa, told the Compass the filmmakers were happy to promote the National Trust, as they support its mission “to preserve the Cayman Islands for future generations”.
She added, “Little Cayman is a gem in the Caribbean and the cinematography of Frans De Backer shows that beautifully. It is an unspoiled Paradise Found. We hope by making this film that viewers will be motivated to achieve their dreams, no matter how difficult that process may be.”
Hart said in a statement, “Paradise Found tells the inspiring story of Brigitte Kassa, the oldest living resident in Little Cayman, who fled Germany during WWII, founded a popular disco in Monte Carlo, and found her paradise where she built her dream house in Little Cayman. Against all odds.”
Frank Roulstone, executive director of the National Trust, which is hosting the screening, described Kassa as an “avid supporter” of the Trust.
“In particular, Mrs. Kassa has made generous contributions over the years that have helped with the purchase of ecologically significant habitats in Little Cayman,” he said. “These special places in nature, rich in biodiversity, are protected for the benefit of all. Forever.
“Brigitte found paradise in Little Cayman and has spent her life trying to keep it the paradise that it is. Her pursuit of her dream should be an inspiration to us all.”
The one-night-only event will be held from 5pm to 7pm. Tickets include drinks and canapes at a reception at the nearby Abacus restaurant, followed by the screening of the documentary at Camana Bay Cinema. There will be a Q&A with Kassa and the filmmakers after the screening.
Space is limited, and tickets ($50 for adults, $25 for children 12 and under) are available online at www.nationaltrust.org.ky or via email at [email protected].
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