The Little Red Dress: Film Screening & Conversation

Join us for a screening of The Little Red Dress, a 20-minute short drama written and directed by former Wide Angle staff member Maceo Tendaji and produced by Ikonic Visions.

The film follows Alicia, a single mother navigating the challenges of rebuilding her life while her mother, Darlene, returns home from rehab determined to start again. Through their story, The Little Red Dress explores forgiveness, second chances, hope, resilience, and the complicated work of rebuilding family after addiction.

Following the screening, writer and director Maceo Tendaji will be joined by Crystal Coates, who plays Alicia, for a Q&A and conversation about the film.

Location: Wide Angle Youth Media, 2507 N. Howard Street, Ste 100, Baltimore, MD 21218

Time:

• 6:00 PM – Doors Open
• 6:30 PM – Screening, Presentation, Q&A
• 8:30 PM – Reception

Accessibility:

• Entrance is outfitted with an access ramp and ADA push button
• 2 designated handicap parking spaces are available in front of our entrance
• All gender and ADA bathrooms are available

Bios:

Maceo Tendaji is a filmmaker based in Baltimore, MD. His work ranges from narrative films, music videos, documentaries, and corporate/networking events. He is the founder of Ikonic Visions Multimedia Group launched in 2020. Tendaji has worked with high-profile clients such as Atlantic Records, BET, Walmart, McDonald’s, Dove, CareFirst, T.Rowe Price, Under Armour and many more. Tendaji received his BA in Mass Communications at Virginia State University. Years later he enrolled at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) where he received his MFA in Film.

His love of music, sports, and African-American culture is very prevalent in his work. His work has screened at several film festivals across the nation and internationally, winning awards for “Best Short Film,” “Best Director,” “Best Music Video,” and many more. He also teaches film/media production at Goucher College and MICA. Tendaji aspires to tell creative and thought-provoking stories while also educating/mentoring the next generation of storytellers.

Crystal Coates is a Northern Virginia–based actress, content creator, and creative entrepreneur with experience in film, television, theater, commercials, and digital media. In The Little Red Dress, Crystal portrays Alicia in a supporting role, bringing emotional depth and authenticity to the character. Crystal has appeared in commercial campaigns for Navy Federal Credit Union, Mattress Warehouse, Baltimore/Washington International Airport, Long Fence, and Anne Arundel Savings Bank. She also appeared in the Bronze Telly Award–winning production Art Imitates Life. Through every role, Crystal is passionate about portraying relatable, multidimensional women and creating work that leaves audiences feeling seen.

Beyond acting, Crystal is the founder of Actors Society DMV, a community created to connect, support, and create opportunities for actors throughout the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area.

Whether she is performing in front of the camera, encouraging other creatives, or building new opportunities within her community, Crystal remains committed to creating with purpose and inspiring others along the way.