InspireNOLA Presents the premiere of ‘Inspire the City’ and Special Viewing of HBO’s ‘Katrina Babies’
NEW ORLEANS, LA — InspireNOLA Charter Schools, in partnership with House of the Young Ent., is proud to present an unforgettable evening celebrating New Orleans’ rich cultural heritage, community pride, and resilience. On Friday, August 22, 2025, the historic Orpheum Theatre will host the world premiere of Inspire the City: What’s the Name of Yo School?!, followed by a special screening of the award-winning HBO Original documentary Katrina Babies.
The evening will begin at 7:00 PM with the debut of Inspire the City, a short film directed by acclaimed filmmaker Edward Buckles, Jr. This dynamic and nostalgic project takes viewers on a vibrant journey through the traditions, pride, and enduring spirit found in New Orleans’ schools. The film honors the marching bands, cheer squads, athletes, and students who help define the city’s identity and inspire generations.
Immediately following, the audience will experience Katrina Babies, Buckles’ powerful and deeply personal HBO Original documentary. The film captures the untold stories of the children who lived through Hurricane Katrina, exploring the long-term impact on their lives, communities, and futures. Through raw interviews, archival footage, and intimate storytelling, Katrina Babies sheds light on the resilience and humanity of a generation shaped by one of the most devastating natural disasters in American history.
“I grew up in the city and culture, where when someone asks, “What school did you attend?”, you know they're asking about your high school. School pride has always been instilled in me. This night is about honoring who we are, where we come from, and the stories that continue to shape New Orleans,” said Buckles. “From the joy of our school culture to the pain and perseverance after Hurricane Katrina, these films celebrate the truth and beauty of our city.”
This will be the third event to launch the Inspire the City initiative — a yearlong campaign of community impact, love, and advocacy in celebration of the 20th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.
Event Details:
Date: Friday, August 22, 2025
Location: Orpheum Theatre, New Orleans, LA
Time: 7:00 PM
Both films will be followed by a conversation with Edward Buckles Jr. and special guests, offering the audience an opportunity to dive deeper into the stories and themes explored on screen.
Free Tickets are available now online: https://bit.ly/inspirethecityfilm
About InspireNOLA Charter Schools
Founded in 2013, InspireNOLA Charter Schools operates a network of seven public charter schools in New Orleans, including Alice M. Harte Charter School, Andrew H. Wilson Charter School, Dwight D. Eisenhower Charter School, Pierre A. Capdau S.T.E.A.M. School, Edna Karr High School, Eleanor McMain Secondary School, and McDonogh 35 Senior High School. InspireNOLA serves more than 5,000 students in prekindergarten through 12th grade and is committed to transforming lives and communities through education.