Alternating Currentsdocumentarytopremiereairon KWQ C

Published in Media and Entertainment on Wednesday, August 13th 2025 at 15:50 GMT by KWQC
^{🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source}

KWQC-TV6 put together a documentary that captures the people, places and pivotal moments that have shaped the festival.

Alternating Currents Documentary Premiere to Air on KWQC

In a celebration of local culture and creativity, the highly anticipated documentary "Alternating Currents" is set to make its television premiere on KWQC this weekend. The film, which chronicles the vibrant history and impact of the Alternating Currents festival in the Quad Cities, promises to offer viewers an intimate look at the event that has become a cornerstone of the region's arts scene. Directed by local filmmaker Alex Thompson, the documentary dives deep into the festival's origins, its evolution over the years, and the diverse array of artists, musicians, comedians, and filmmakers who have graced its stages.

The Alternating Currents festival, held annually in downtown Davenport, Iowa, and across the river in Rock Island and Moline, Illinois, began as a modest gathering in 2017. What started as a platform for independent films has blossomed into a multifaceted extravaganza featuring live music, stand-up comedy, visual arts installations, and interactive workshops. The documentary captures this growth through exclusive interviews with founders, performers, and attendees, highlighting how the event has fostered a sense of community and artistic expression in the heart of the Midwest.

Thompson, a Quad Cities native with a background in independent cinema, explains in the film that the title "Alternating Currents" draws inspiration from the electrical term, symbolizing the dynamic flow of ideas and energy between different art forms and the two states connected by the Mississippi River. "It's about the back-and-forth, the exchange that happens when creatives come together," Thompson shares in one poignant scene. The documentary weaves together archival footage from past festivals, including memorable performances by indie bands like The Candymakers and comedy sets from rising stars who have since gone on to national fame.

Viewers can expect a narrative that not only entertains but also educates on the challenges and triumphs of organizing such an event. The film delves into the logistical hurdles faced by organizers, from securing venues in historic buildings like the Adler Theatre to navigating weather uncertainties during outdoor concerts along the riverfront. Personal stories add emotional depth: one segment follows a young musician from Bettendorf who credits the festival with launching her career, while another profiles a comedian from East Moline who found his voice through open-mic nights at Alternating Currents.

The premiere on KWQC, scheduled for Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 8 p.m. CST, marks a significant milestone for the documentary. KWQC, the NBC affiliate serving the Quad Cities area, has long supported local arts initiatives, and this airing is part of their commitment to showcasing regional stories. Following the broadcast, a special panel discussion will air, featuring Thompson and festival co-founders Jason Gilliland and Sarah Elgatian. They will discuss the film's production process, which spanned over two years and involved hundreds of hours of footage from festivals held between 2020 and 2024.

What sets "Alternating Currents" apart is its focus on inclusivity. The documentary highlights how the festival has made strides in diversity, featuring artists from underrepresented communities, including LGBTQ+ performers, musicians of color, and emerging talents from rural areas surrounding the Quad Cities. Interviews with participants reveal how the event has become a safe space for expression, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, when virtual components kept the spirit alive.

Musically, the film is a treat, with a soundtrack composed of original scores and live recordings from festival acts. Viewers will hear snippets from genres ranging from folk and rock to hip-hop and electronic, underscoring the festival's eclectic nature. Visual elements are equally compelling, with drone shots of the bustling festival grounds, intimate close-ups of performers in action, and time-lapse sequences showing the transformation of downtown areas into vibrant hubs of activity.

Beyond entertainment, the documentary serves as a call to action for community involvement. It explores the economic impact of Alternating Currents on the Quad Cities, noting how it draws thousands of visitors annually, boosting local businesses like restaurants, hotels, and shops. Data from festival organizers indicates that attendance has grown from a few hundred in its inaugural year to over 10,000 in recent editions, contributing significantly to the area's cultural tourism.

Thompson's directorial style is immersive and heartfelt, blending cinéma vérité techniques with narrative storytelling. He captures candid moments, such as backstage preparations where nerves run high, and triumphant post-performance celebrations. The film also addresses broader themes, like the role of arts festivals in revitalizing post-industrial cities. The Quad Cities, once known primarily for manufacturing, are portrayed as a burgeoning creative enclave, thanks in part to events like Alternating Currents.

For those who have attended the festival, the documentary will evoke nostalgia, reminding them of memorable experiences like the outdoor film screenings under the stars or the comedy roasts that had audiences in stitches. Newcomers will gain insight into why this event has earned accolades, including recognition from national arts organizations for its innovative programming.

The premiere isn't just a one-off; KWQC plans to make the documentary available on their streaming platforms post-broadcast, ensuring wider accessibility. This move aligns with the festival's ethos of breaking down barriers to art. Additionally, a portion of any proceeds from related merchandise or donations will support future festival endeavors, including scholarships for young artists.

In an era where digital media often overshadows live experiences, "Alternating Currents" reminds us of the irreplaceable value of in-person connections. As one interviewee poignantly states, "The festival isn't just about the shows; it's about the currents of humanity flowing together." This sentiment encapsulates the film's core message, making it a must-watch for anyone invested in the arts or the Quad Cities community.

As the premiere approaches, excitement is building. Local venues are hosting watch parties, and social media is abuzz with teasers and behind-the-scenes clips. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering Alternating Currents for the first time, this documentary promises to inspire and entertain, shining a spotlight on the creative heartbeat of the Midwest. Tune in to KWQC this Saturday to witness the story unfold.

Read the Full KWQC Article at:
[ https://www.kwqc.com/2025/08/07/alternating-currents-documentary-premiere-air-kwqc/ ]

N※N

Alternating Currentsdocumentarytopremiereairon KWQ C

Alternating Currents Documentary Premiere to Air on KWQC