City Magazine

Best known for her non-linear multimedia work, filmmaker Mara Ahmed creates documentaries, soundscapes and visual art projects that challenge colonial narratives and cross political and cultural borders. Born in Lahore but educated in Belgium, Pakistan and the United States, Ahmed’s work reflects those layered histories and displacements. Her films have aired on PBS as well as screening internationally.

Ahmed’s latest doc, “The Injured Body: A Film About Racism in America” was shot over eight years and post-produced in Rochester, weaving together the voices of 16 women rooted in local communities and featuring the work of 10 dance artists and choreographers.

It premieres on May 30 at The Little Theatre; read George Cassidy Payne’s full preview online, link in comments. 🔗

When The Demos step on stage, the sound is tighter, the edges cleaner, the connection sharper than ever. After a four-year hiatus, the band’s return has been shaped by time, perspective and a city that never quite stopped listening.

Led by Jay Milton on vocals and guitar alongside Callan Saunders, Jeremiah O’Reilly and Caela Moore, the current lineup brings together players from across the band’s different eras. Returning members Ryan Farnung and Anna Dana add a renewed chemistry that bridges past and present.

That continuity makes their upcoming appearance at the Rochester Lilac Festival feel especially fitting. More than 15 years after their last performance in Highland Park, the band returns this Thursday, May 14, not as it once was, but more fully formed.

Read Jon Heath’s full story in our May issue, on stands and online now, link in comments. 🔗