New York, NY – Friday, June 9th, 2023 “Maestra” directed by the talented Maggie Contreras premiered at Tribeca Film Festival. This remarkable film sheds light on the incredible journeys of several women participating in the world’s only all-women competition for conductors.
Maggie Contreras’ vision is brought to life through an exceptional team of collaborators. The film is proudly presented with the executive production expertise of David Letterman, Tom Keaney, Jonathan Ginns, Jamie Wolf, Nathalie Seaver, and Diane Becker. Cowritten by Contreras and Neil Berkeley, the editing was done by Elisa Bonora, Finola Couling, and Rupert Hall.
The film features an esteemed cast, including Marin Alsop, Deborah Borda, Mélisse Brunet, Ustina Dubitsky, Tamara Dworetz, Kwamé Ryan, Anna Sułkowska-Migon, and Zoe Zeniodi, whose stories intertwine to create a powerful narrative.
Contreras delves into the profoundly competitive world of conducting, a field historically plagued by sexism and gendered expectations. Through intimate portraits of these exceptional women, the documentary unravels their personal stories, showcasing the profound impact of childhood abuse, maternity discrimination, and societal pressures on their lives. Contreras masterfully unites these diverse experiences, revealing the commonalities that bind them and their individual struggles.
Contrary to the intense nature of the competition, “Maestra” takes a more contemplative approach, allowing viewers to intimately connect with each participant before the contest unfolds. As the suspense builds and participants are eliminated one by one, the tension becomes palpable, highlighting the undeniable talent and determination possessed by every competitor.
Check out our youtube video to watch our red-carpet interview with the cast.