My Order

Two South Africans set out to discover what happened to their unlikely musical hero, the mysterious 1970s rock 'n roller, Rodriguez, a Detroit folksinger who had a short-lived recording career with only two well-received but non-selling albums.

Unknown to Rodriguez, his musical story continued in South Africa where he became a pop music icon and inspiration for generations. Long rumoured there to be dead, a few fans in the 1990s decided to seek out the truth of their hero's fate. What follows is a bizarrely heartening story in which they found far more in their quest than they ever hoped.

Rodriguez's music was the soundtrack for many growing up in apartheid South Africa, as his lyrics addressed social injustice and inspired anti-apartheid movements, and he was as influential as Elvis. His rediscovery in the 1990s led to this Oscar-winning film, sparking a late-life career revival.

With support of the BFI Film Audience Network, awarding funds from the National Lottery in order to bring this project to more audiences across the UK  

Part of Hidden Beach - Summer of Culture, a cultural programme rooted in music, creativity and shared experience, based in Hastings and St Leonards. From live performances and film nights to workshops, wellbeing activities and community meals, the programme invites people to engage in ways that feel open, welcoming and accessible.

Since its beginnings, Hidden Beach has brought people together through live music, film, food, movement and conversation — creating spaces where culture is not only presented, but practiced together. The Electric Palace is a proud partner.