How do you fit a lifetime into a documentary? Wait, make that how do you fit the lifetimes of an entire family into a documentary? It’s not easy and it’s been a long journey but on Thursday, July 21st,  “Family Band: The Cowsills Story” was screened for a sold-out crowd at The Paley Center For Media in Beverly Hills.

Fritz Coleman began the evening by introducing Louise Palanker, the film’s producer & director to the audience. Following a few brief remarks by Louise, the audience was treated to the first public screening of the film.

Honestly portraying the rise and fall and ultimate triumph of The Cowsills and trying to answer the question of What happened, the documentary touches the emotions and can make you laugh and cry – sometimes at the same time. The weaving of music with the interviews, especially the use of some of Susan Cowsill‘s solo efforts, is truly powerful. This is a movie for fans of The Cowsills and non fans alike which will leave you wanting to strengthen the connections with your family members.

Next up, The Cowsills and the members of the creative team (Louise, Ian Broyles & Bill Filipiak) participated in a question & answer session moderated by Fritz Coleman.

Following the entertaining and informative question & answer session, Bob, Paul & Susan performed a few musical numbers. Susan actually had laryngitis and tried valiantly to sing a bit but was not up to her usual vocal prowess. The audience was treated to Peter, Paul & Mary’s If I Had My Way, Indian Lake, Hair and a bit of Happy Trails.

There were lots of videos being recorded so keep your eyes open for these to show up online, but for now, we’ll share one that was posted by the drummer in the Bob Cowsill Band, Jim Laspesa.

Thanks to everyone who attended and special thanks to Fritz Coleman, Louise Palanker, Ian Broyles and Bill Filipiak.