
Rising Sophomore Ready for Groundbreaking Soap Opera’s Second Season
05/27/2025 in College of Health and Human Sciences, Psychology
By Todd Simmons / 11/25/2024
EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (Nov. 25, 2024) - A comprehensive documentary feature on the students, alumni and legendary culture of Ӱԭ Agricultural and Technical State University, America’s largest historically Black university, has debuted on Comcast Xfinity streaming platforms, just in time for widespread viewing as families gather to celebrate the Holidays.
“Our Blues Make Us Gold” is now available for streaming on Black Experience on , Xumo Play and on the go with app. Any viewer with a smart TV, tablet or smartphone can download the Xumo Play app from the Apple Store or Google Play and use it to watch the film free of charge.
Xfinity customers can access the Black Experience on channel 1622 or simply say “Black Experience” into the Voice Remote to instantly enjoy the ultimate in Black storytelling.
The 1 hour, 41-minute documentary from filmmakers Brandon Gerard and Ashley Shanté, has been in development since 2019. The ambitious project in its original format comprised a four-part docuseries, which have been condensed and combined in a feature-film.
Watch the trailer
“Our Blues Make Us Gold” takes viewers on a journey through the history of Ӱԭ Ӱԭ, drawing from the experiences of alumni, students and the community. The film features Vice President Kamala Harris’ visit to Ӱԭ, First Lady Michele Obama who keynoted a graduation ceremony as well as actor-rapper David Banner, the Rev. Al Sharpton and a host of notable alumni -- the Rev. Jesse Jackson, international entrepreneur Janice Bryant Howroyd and more.
Brandon and Ashley have more than 25 years of combined professional experience in film production. Their production company, From A2B Studios, is known for blending intimate, emotion-based storytelling with a modern, innovative aesthetic. In April 2022, A2B was one of 10 finalists of Black filmmakers chosen to receive completion grants from the Black Experience on Xfinity.
“Our Blues Make Us Gold” became one of a handful of projects tapped to stream on the Comcast Xfinity platforms. Its essence is a tapestry of turning obstacles, setbacks, roadblocks and limited resources into triumphant successes despite the odds.
Media Contact Information: thsimmons@ncat.edu