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Shaolin Jazz celebrates 40 years of ‘American Ninja’ with live-scored screening in D.C.

The free community event marks the 40th anniversary of the film’s release and includes exclusive content from director Sam Firstenberg.
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Can I Kick It Shaolin Jazz American Ninja
Shaolin Jazz
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Shaolin Jazz will bring their signature blend of hip-hop culture and cinematic nostalgia to Songbyrd Music House on Tuesday, July 29, with a special CAN I KICK IT? presentation featuring a live-scored screening of the 1985 martial arts cult classic American Ninja.

The free community event marks the 40th anniversary of the film’s release and includes exclusive content from director Sam Firstenberg.

Can I Kick It: Shaolin Jazz celebrates American Ninja

The film, starring Michael Dudikoff as a martial-arts-trained American soldier combating a ninja army in the Philippines, will be accompanied by a live soundtrack curated scene-by-scene by Shaolin Jazz co-founder DJ 2-Tone Jones. Known for his genre-blending sets, 2-Tone will mix funk, soul, hip-hop, rock, and cinematic sound bites to heighten the drama and intimacy of each moment—from high-octane fight sequences to quieter romantic beats.

Riverbend teaser

Ahead of the screening, attendees will view a video introduction from Firstenberg and an exclusive teaser for the upcoming restoration of his 1991 film Riverbend, set for release in 2026 and starring American Ninja icon Steve James.

More information on Can I Kick It American Ninja live score

Doors open at 7 p.m., with the film beginning at 7:30 p.m. at Songbyrd Music House (540 Penn St. NE). Food and drink specials will be available throughout the evening. Shaolin Jazz merch featuring apparel and collectibles can be purchased.

For fans of martial arts cinema, hip-hop, and immersive film experiences, this one-night-only event offers a celebration of legacy, culture, and creative reinterpretation.

See also  Live film scoring duo brings immersive film experience to Cary, N.C.

For more information, visit Shaolin Jazz website.

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Unheard Voices, an award-winning, family-operated online news magazine, began in 2004 as a community newsletter serving Neptune, Asbury Park, and Long Branch, N.J. Over time, it grew into a nationally recognized Black-owned media outlet. The publication remains one of the few dedicated to covering social justice issues. Its honors include the NAACP Unsung Hero Award and multiple media innovator awards for excellence in social justice reporting and communications.

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