Director of Tangier Documentary Hopes Local Screenings Spark Regional Connection

ONANCOCK, Va. — As Been Here Stay Here, the acclaimed documentary about life on Tangier Island, prepares for its first theatrical run at the Roseland Theatre June 20–24, director David Usui is reaching out to local audiences and media with a personal message: this film was made for you.

“The film is quiet and immersive—no experts, no outside commentary,” Usui said. “Just the daily life of Tangier: its rhythms, its rituals, its deep faith, and the grit and grace of a community that has endured for centuries.”

Usui emphasized the film’s intentional tone, describing it as an invitation rather than a lecture. “We wanted to make something that didn’t preach or divide, but instead invited people in—especially those who might see themselves reflected in the world onscreen.”

That approach resonated powerfully last month when Been Here Stay Here was screened on Tangier Island itself—the first film to be shown there since 1958. According to Usui, the event brought out the entire island community, who stayed long after the credits to talk about how the film captured their lives with “honesty and care.”

Now, with screenings set for June 20–24 in Onancock, Usui sees a unique opportunity to build momentum and connection around the Chesapeake Bay. “These screenings in Onancock matter just as much—if not more—than the major festivals,” said Usui, whose film previously played to enthusiastic crowds at the International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA), the Annapolis Film Festival, and the DC Environmental Film Festival.

Showtimes at the Roseland Theatre include:

• Friday, June 20 at 7 p.m.
• Saturday, June 21 at 7 p.m.
• Sunday, June 22 at 4 p.m.
• Tuesday, June 24 at 7 p.m.

“This is the beginning of something we hope will grow,” Usui said. “A chance to raise awareness, build support, and ultimately, serve the island in a meaningful way.”

Tickets and information are available at www.roselandonancock.com. To view the trailer, visit vimeo.com/991080775.