The MPI Original feature film Miss Virginia premiered to packed theaters and thunderous applause in New York City and Washington, DC. 

Celebrities and guests walked the red carpet at the SVA Theatre in New York this past Friday, and were treated to a post-screening panel featuring the real-life “Miss Virginia” and cast members Matthew Modine (Full Metal Jacket, Stranger Things) and Amirah Vann (How to Get Away with Murder). Director R. J. Daniel Hanna, parent advocate Wendy Cunningham, and scholarship recipient Walter Blanks Jr. rounded out the panel, which centered on using the film to inspire audiences to follow in Virginia’s footsteps and advocate for America’s children.

On Monday, Miss Virginia was met with resounding applause at Washington, DC’s Sidney Harman Hall. The response was so overwhelming the event was waitlisted with over 900 people wanting to attend. Cast member Niles Fitch (This is Us) joined the discussion alongside Virginia, Dan, parent advocate Pam Battle, and scholarship recipient Dr. Tiffany Dunston. An inspiring mini-doc on Dr. Dunston and Virginia’s legacy was also screened. Watch the video here along with four other inspiring profiles of former students who benefited from the program Virginia helped create.

MPI continues to host premiere events across the country, premiering the film in Philadelphia yesterday, with future events in Little Rock, Bentonville, and finally Los Angeles. 

Miss Virginia will appear in select theaters and on demand October 18th. Make sure to pre-order it on iTunes today!