"Ronzo" is a playful documentary exploring the life and legacy of Ron Shapiro, affectionately known as Ronzo, who transformed Oxford, Mississippi, into a hub for art and creativity. As the soul of the Hoka Theater, Ronzo built more than a venue — he created a sanctuary for misfits, where music, films, poetry, and progressive ideas flourished. The Hoka became a launching pad for writers, artists, and musicians, including celebrated figures like John Grisham, Barry Hannah, and the North Mississippi Allstars. It was a space where students from the University of Mississippi mingled with locals, and counterculture icons like Abbie Hoffman and Hunter S. Thompson passed through.
Ronzo’s impact extended beyond the theater as he bridged political divides and provoked thought through humor and empathy. His unconventional spirit influenced many artists, including Jim Dees, Joey Lauren Adams, and members of Wilco. His legacy continues through Hoka Days, an annual celebration in his honor, culminating in a lively parade in Oxford. Though Ronzo’s death left a void, his influence remains, reminding us of the power of creativity, inclusion, and the arts in shaping communities.
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