IW production company to host premiere

Published 9:32 pm Monday, October 31, 2016

An Isle of Wight-based production company will have one of Hollywood’s best-known faces hosting its film premiere event next week.

On Nov. 10, Vivica A. Fox will serve as the host for HP Music and Arts’ red carpet premiere of its new film, “Caught Up: Memoirs of a Preacher’s Wife.”

“We are excited to have an actress of her caliber,” said Laequinla Hunter, HP Music and Arts co-chief executive officer.

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“It adds momentum to what we are doing.”

The premiere will take place at the Paragon Theatre in Newport News, located at 1180 Fountain Way. There will be a 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. showing.

Ernest and Laequinla Hunter, co-chief executive officers of Windsor-based production company HP Music and Arts, will host its first feature film premiere at Paragon Theatre in Newport News on Nov. 10. (Submitted Photo)

Ernest and Laequinla Hunter, co-chief executive officers of Windsor-based production company HP Music and Arts, will host its first feature film premiere at Paragon Theatre in Newport News on Nov. 10. (Submitted Photo)

The film explores the dynamics of a church congregation. The film will touch on social, racial, religious and economic issues often not discussed in religious circles.

“We want to bring resolve to these issues and promote healthy family dynamics,” Hunter said.

HP Music and Arts, founded in 2002 by Ernest and Laequinla Hunter, aims to impact the gospel music industry. The Windsor-based company offers videography, photography, graphic design and recording services.

“Caught Up: Memoirs of a Preacher’s Wife” marks the production company’s first independent film, which has been in the works since June of last year. Filming was completed by early September of this year.

During the company’s casting calls, more than 75 people showed up. However, only 10 were selected for the film. Also, the majority of the actors and actresses on screen are from the Hampton Roads area.

“The focus was to use people in our own area,” Hunter said.

The film hits close to home for the Hunters as they have been faced with the movie’s themes of familial communication and navigating through difficult times in ministry.

The Hunters have authored several books, including “Ministry Shall Not Destroy My Marriage,” which dwells upon similar themes discussed in the film.

Tickets for the red carpet premiere can be purchased at the company’s website at www.hpmusicandarts.com. Each showing will seat 200.

To date, Hunter said more than 195 tickets have been sold.

“We want to pack every seat because we know that this message will leave an impact in the community,” she said.

In addition to the screening, all guests will enjoy a free dinner. VIP guests are granted a private meet-and-greet with Vivica A. Fox, a goodie bag, a commemorative photo and premium seating.

For more event information, contact 556-5247 or visit the film’s Facebook page.