Black Barbie: A Documentary celebrates the momentous impact three Black women at Mattel had on the evolution of the Barbie brand as we know it. Through these charismatic insiders’ stories, the documentary tells the story of how the first Black Barbie came to be in 1980, examining the importance of representation and how dolls can be crucial to the formation of identity and imagination.

Join CALS & ESSE Purse Museum for a special FREE screening of Black Barbie: A Documentary, Wednesday, September 23, emceed by Verda Davenport. And don’t miss the “Barbie & Friends” exhibit at the ESSE Purse Museum, starting Thursday, September 24. As a special bonus for our patrons, show your movie ticket at the museum for FREE admission!

This is a FREE event.

Film Start Time: Doors open at 6:00pm, and the film will begin promptly at 7:00pm. As our films are general admission seating, please be sure to arrive early to secure your seat. Beer, wine, and concessions will be available.

Free Parking: We’re pleased to offer complimentary parking for all attendees. Simply bring your parking ticket from the library parking lot (across from the Main Library on Rock Street) or the parking deck (next to the Main Library on Rock Street) inside the theater, and our friendly box office staff will validate it for you. Validations are for paid ticket holders only.