Lights

Pre-screening lecturer: Karen E. Milbourne, PhD — J. Sanford Miller Family Director at The Fralin Museum of Art at UVA. Previously, she was the senior curator at the National Museum of African Art in Washington, D.C.

in Collaboration with The Virginia Theatre Festival and The Fralin Museum of Art

Directed by Ali Ray

Frida Kahlo is a phenomenon. She is arguably the world’s favorite female artist – beloved by young and old. Exhibition on Screen™’s award-winning film – first released during COVID to a restricted audience – is back by popular demand with an exciting new addition from the blockbuster transatlantic exhibition from Tate Britain and MFA Houston, Frida Kahlo: the Making of an Icon. Frida Kahlo returns to cinemas in May 2026, one month before the Tate exhibition opens, allowing audiences to watch both the film and see the show.

Who was Frida Kahlo? Everyone knows her face but who was the woman behind the bright colors, the big brows, and the floral crowns? Take a journey through the life of a true icon, discover her art, and uncover the true story of her rebellious, passionate, and turbulent life.

Making use of the latest technology to deliver previously unimaginable quality, we take an in-depth look at key works throughout her career. Using letters Kahlo wrote to guide us, this definitive film reveals her deepest emotions and unlocks the secrets and symbolism contained within her art.

Exhibition on Screen™’s trademark combination of interviews with those who knew her and world experts, commentary, and a detailed exploration of her art, combined with new special bonus footage from the 2026 Tate exhibition, delivers a treasure trove of color and emotion. This personal and intimate film offers privileged access to her works, her home, her studio, and highlights the source of her feverish creativity, her resilience, and her unmatched lust for life, beauty, and revolution.

Created in close collaboration with world experts and those who knew her.

Additional new material from the curators of the groundbreaking new Tate Britain and MFA Houston exhibition.

Community Events Celebrating Frida Kahlo

Art Together Paint and Sip at The Fralin Museum of Art (June 18 at 6:00PM)*
Step onto The Fralin’s outdoor plaza for an evening of color, creativity, and community as we explore floral watercolor techniques inspired by the vibrant world of Frida Kahlo. Guided by Fralin Education staff and Kahlo’s iconic florals, you’ll create your own vibrant composition while enjoying Frida‑ and Mexican‑inspired drinks and light bites. Join us as we raise a glass to creativity, community, and the enduring power of Frida’s artistic legacy.

*Fralin Museum Members have Priority Registration through May 18th

Frida…A Self Portrait at The Virginia Theatre Festival (July 23-26)
Acclaimed actor and playwright Vanessa Severo brings to life one of the world’s most iconic and enduring cultural figures in an unfailingly original and boldly theatrical experience that sheds light on the artist as well as the performer while exploring how we shape ourselves through the art we love. Severo unlocks moving parallels between herself and Frida Kahlo while crafting a poetic performance that explores Kahlo’s breathtaking life and astonishing genius.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO! The Paramount Theater is pleased to bring diverse programming to the stage and screen. The Theater does not provide advisories about subject matter for events, as sensitivities vary. Not all events may appeal to, or be appropriate for, every person. Patrons are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the shows offered in order to make informed decisions prior to purchasing tickets.

In addition to show synopses, trailers, and reviews on our web events, other resources about content and age-appropriateness for specific films can be found on Common Sense Media, IMDb, and DoesTheDogDie.com as well as through general internet searches. For further questions, please contact the Box Office at 434.979.1333 or at boxoffice@theparamount.net, 10AM-2PM Monday-Friday + 1 hour before events.