Free screening of Shine in series Science in the Cinema
(Calgary, Alberta) Calgarians are invited to enjoy an evening of free popcorn, a movie and a discussion with a medical expert. On Thursday, April 8, 2010, Alberta Innovates – Health Solutions is presenting Shine at 6:30 p.m. at the Plaza Theatre, 1133 Kensington Road NW.
This Oscar winning film tells the true story of Australian pianist, David Helfgott, (played by Geoffry Rush) and the traumatic early years that shape his life. As a young man, David suffers a breakdown that causes him to enter a mental institution. In this truly inspirational movie David demonstrates that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
The film will be introduced by Dr. Donald Addington, professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Calgary Faculty of Medicine, clinical medical director of Early Psychosis Treatment Services for Alberta Health Services, and a member of the Hotchkiss Brain Institute. Following the movie, Dr. Addington will lead a discussion on the latest research in mental health.
Dr. Addington established the psychosis research unit at the Foothills Medical Centre 26 years ago, initially focusing on depression, drug treatment and neurocognitive functioning in schizophrenia. His own research and clinical work has since shifted to treating and preventing early psychosis. Dr. Addington has also developed clinical practice guidelines for treating schizophrenia, and performance measures for early psychosis services. He served as chair of the Department of Psychiatry at U of C, and head of the Regional Clinical Department of Psychiatry from 1997 to 2008.
“This Science in the Cinema program is part of our ongoing focus on science education, inviting people around the province – especially young people – to enjoy a night at the movies and to learn about on-the-ground health research in Alberta,” says Alberta Innovates – Health Solutions President and CEO Jacques Magnan, PhD. “Our thanks go out to the physicians and scientists who have been sharing their considerable expertise with Albertans.”
Media contact: Karen Thomas, Media Specialist, 1.877.423.5727 x225,
For more information, and for reporters attending the film contact: Nancy Whelan, Education Community Outreach Manager, , 1.877.423.5727 x260.