A new film written and directed by Daniel Roebuck, a Bethlehem Catholic High School graduate and Hollywood film and TV actor, will premiere Saturday, Feb. 21.
“The Hail Mary” is a heartwarming and funny movie about a religious sister who convinces a handyman in need of redemption to coach her hapless football team at a fictional all-boys Catholic school.
The film features members of the Bethlehem Catholic football team and cheerleading squad. It was shot at several Lehigh Valley locations, including the former Mary Immaculate Seminary in Northampton.
Roebuck returned to his high school alma mater on Jan. 9, along with the movie’s cast, crew, and its many supporters, to announce the premiere dates at a news conference.
On Feb. 21, the public can see the movie for the first time and meet Roebuck and other cast members at 11 a.m. at the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas at ArtsQuest in Bethlehem; at Bethlehem Catholic High School at 3 p.m.; and at the historic Roxy Theatre in Northampton at 7 p.m.
The movie will open in local theaters Friday, Feb. 27.
Tickets for the premieres can be purchased at www.achannelofpeace.org, the website of Roebuck’s nonprofit venture created to make faith-filled family films. The website also contains a link to a “trailer” containing clips from the movie.
Other locations where Roebuck filmed parts of the movie include Dorney Park in Allentown and the Bethlehem Area School District football stadium.
“This movie is my love letter to religious sisters,” Roebuck told those gathered in the high school auditorium. “They are the heart of the church.”
By Paul Wirth.
Photo by Norm Steinruck.
