The Flynn Center has partnered with Vermont Public Television and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Vermont to present Community Cinema in FlynnSpace.

The film, "For Once in my Life," showing on Jan. 11, tells the story of 28 musicians and singers who all have severe mental and physical disabilities. Their band, the Spirit of Goodwill Band offers members a home away from home where the musicians are free to display their talent, humor, and tenacity.

Community Cinema is a free monthly screening series showcasing the Emmy Award-winning PBS Series Independent Lens. A new film is previewed at these screenings one month prior to the scheduled broadcast of each film on Vermont Public Television.

The Spirit of Goodwill Band was conceived and began playing music in 1996, within the walls of Goodwill Industries of South Florida, where all members are employed. They started with one piano and have grown into an orchestra with voice, percussions, keyboards, and a brass section. In 2003, the band recorded their first CD with donated time in a local studio. The band began entertaining audiences with concerts at Veteran's homes, civic commitments, and nursing homes. More recently, with an updated repertoire, the band played for a sold out crowd at the University of Miami in 2008 and recorded a new CD.

In late 2007, a small group of filmmakers collaborated with the music director and Goodwill, to launch a film about the band. The Spirit of Goodwill Band's unique challenges made the attempt to work on a professional stage as part of a much larger film event filled with uncertainty. The producers and director wondered until the last minute if the performance could actually be pulled off.

With the filming of rehearsals, interviews, and the tensions of the build-ups and trials, the story takes shape. What has been accomplished is a documentary that offers inspiration and the message of music's nurturing powers for all people.