Been Here Stay Here coming to Palace Theatre tonight

CAPE CHARLES, VA— After premiering to critical acclaim at IDFA in Amsterdam and making waves at major U.S. festivals, Been Here Stay Here—a quietly powerful, observational documentary about life on Tangier Island—is coming to the Historic Palace Theatre in Cape Charles, VA for one night only.

Following a sold-out run at the Roseland Theatre in Onancock—extended due to overwhelming demand—this special Cape Charles screening offers a rare chance for Eastern Shore audiences to see a story from their own backyard, brought to life on the big screen.

Q&A to follow with Tangier’s mayor, Ooker Eskridge, director David Usui and moderated by Cay Sophie Rabinowitz.

Set in a centuries-old Christian fishing community deep in the Chesapeake Bay, the film is an intimate, immersive portrait of a place many know but few truly understand. There are no experts, interviews, or voiceovers—just the rhythms of daily life: crabbing, church services, front-porch conversations, and family dinners.

“This is the kind of film we almost never see anymore,” says director David Usui (In Transit). “No stats, no narration. Just life, unfolding.”

Been Here Stay Here has been called a love letter to the Chesapeake—honoring its history, its people, and its enduring spirit. At a time when media often reduces local stories to political shorthand, this film insists on something more grounded and enduring: the meaning of home, presence, and belonging.

For arts reporters, regional editors, and cultural critics, this is a chance to cover something truly special: a film that is both nationally relevant and deeply local. A film that honors the Chesapeake Bay not in passing, but in full. It’s a homecoming. And it may be the only chance to see it on the big screen in Cape Charles.

One night only. Don’t miss it.