Directed by Sylvia Hamilton • 2000 • Canada • 50'

Nova Scotia filmmaker Sylvia Hamilton had always been fascinated by the name ‘Portia White’. She had grown up hearing about this Canadian artist who made a name for herself in the 1940’s: the singer they had called “Canada’s Marian Anderson”. Yet, beyond knowing her name, she realized like many others, she did not really know much about this enigmatic figure.

There was no autobiography, no biography or film to turn to find out more. Hamilton set out on a rescue mission, and to satisfy her curiosity. The result of her extensive research is a full-length thorough and passionate documentary titled, “Portia White: Think On Me”. ""Portia White: Think On Me” is the first major work about this legendary Canadian female artist who led a very unconventional life in the 1940's and who during her time, enjoyed unrivaled success until her career faltered.

Shot in Halifax, Toronto and Detroit, the film features rare archival footage of Portia White performing and interviews with family members, and with colleagues and students, such as Canadian performers Dinah Christie and Judith Lander, who after many years still remain inspired by her. The sound track features a large selection of original recorded music from White's varied repertoire.

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