From Short to Feature: DOUEN Fundraiser Screening Kick-Off

Join us for an intimate evening of films, community, and conversation at Port City Brewing Company’s private Lighthouse Lounge in Alexandria, VA. This special fundraiser supports the production of DOUEN, the first feature-length Caribbean horror folklore film by award-winning Trinidadian-American filmmaker Alyscia Cunningham.

This one-night-only gathering will showcase a curated selection of Alyscia’s short films—including DOUEN II (a proof-of-concept for her upcoming feature), along with bonus screenings of SENSES and NEGRO MOUNTAIN. While the films explore a range of themes, the evening centers on bringing DOUEN—rooted in Trinidad and Tobago folklore and cultural storytelling—to the big screen.

📅 Date: Thursday, October 9, 2025
🕡 Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
📍 Location: Port City Brewing Company, 3950 Wheeler Ave, Alexandria, VA 22304

• DOUEN II (proof-of-concept short for the feature)
• Bonus films: SENSES + NEGRO MOUNTAIN
• Exclusive look at the DOUEN Seed & Spark campaign pitch video

• Director Q&A with Alyscia and cast
• Raffle Giveaway: 2 signed copies of I Am More Than My Hair
• Craft beer + bites available for purchase
• Learn how to support the campaign & be recognized in the film

After the sold-out of DOUEN II at AFI Silver Theatre, one question kept coming up: “How can I support this project?” This event is the answer.

This fundraiser offers an inside look at the vision for DOUEN, while celebrating the rich tradition of Caribbean folklore through film. Together, we can raise the spirits, and the funds, needed to bring this groundbreaking story to life.

DOUEN is fiscally sponsored by Women in Film & Video (WIFV), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Contributions made to Alyscia’s Seed & Spark crowdfunding campaign are tax-deductible.

Can’t attend? You can still make a tax-deductible donation when the Seed & Spark campaign goes live on October 8th. Sign up here for a reminder.

• Port City Brewing Company for hosting this event
• Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC)
• Women in Film & Video (WIFV) – our fiscal sponsor
• Our generous individual supporters

Space is limited to 45 attendees. Reserve your spot today and be part of this exciting journey from short to feature film. Let’s bring DOUEN, a powerful story rooted in Caribbean folklore, to the world cinema.

Can children attend?
Yes, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Please note: the films are rated R and contain horror themes. Tickets are the same price for all attendees.

What’s the dress code?
Casual and comfortable—whatever makes you feel good!

How else can I support if I can’t attend?

• Attend the event and contribute to Seed & Spark when the campaign goes live on October 8th
• Make a tax-deductible donation via prior to the launch
• Share the event with friends and family
• Follow and help spread the word!

Also check out other Entertainment events in Alexandria, Nonprofit events in Alexandria, Arts events in Alexandria.