Raisin' Cain: Tate Wittenberg

Guest Author: Laura Reese, OVAC Intern

Cain’s Ballroom is an historic venue and an icon of the music scene in Oklahoma. Tate Wittenberg hopes to capture the magic and tell the untold tale of this legendary location. Wittenberg’s film Raisin’ Cain will chronicle the history of Cain’s Ballroom as a place of convergence for musical talent from all over the world.

“Cain’s Ballroom is the eye of the needle that measures all who pass through it and remains as popular as ever, hosting the biggest acts in music from around the world,” said Wittenberg, who grew up around Cain’s. Wittenberg’s passion for Cain’s is clear; it was his gateway to the music world during his formative years growing up in Tulsa and Claremore

Goals for Raisin’ Cain include showing the unique experience that Cain’s Ballroom has offered and how influential is has been. Wittenberg said he hopes the film will show Oklahoma, if not the nation, the important role that Tulsa, especially Cain’s Ballroom, has played in the role of the music industry.

Wittenberg was a chosen for a Creative Projects Grant from OVAC to help him complete his project. You can see a teaser and find out more info on Raisin’ Cain at www.raisincainmovie.com. The project is projected to be completed at the end of 2012, and Wittenberg is anticipated to show it at Circle Cinema as well as Cain’s Ballroom itself.


The Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition invests in artists’ project through grants for growing careers, creative projects and exceptional continuing education. The next application deadline is April 16. Find guidelines and application here.