Rebel Songs
Support the Rebel Songs Documentary
The Rebel Songs Documentary is a heartfelt project created by a passionate team dedicated to sharing the transformative story of the Rebel Song Academy.
Led by videographer and director Blake Thorne, the film chronicles the journey of a group of kids through the Academy’s 12-week intensive, highlighting how mentorship and music can profoundly shape young lives. Producer Bret Nelson has been instrumental in production, sound capture, and project organization, while Allison Nelson contributes her expertise in digital media and communications to bring the story to life.
We are currently raising funds to complete the final stages of the film, including professional editing and distribution. With your support, we can share this powerful story with the world and inspire the next generation of young musicians.
Join us in bringing the Rebel Songs Documentary to life—every contribution helps make a difference.
Blake Thorne
Director
Local filmmaker Blake Thorne has produced multiple award-winning shorts for the Kansas City Film Festival, establishing himself as a talented and versatile creator. With extensive experience as a commercial videographer, editor, and producer, Blake brings a sharp eye for detail and a deep understanding of visual storytelling to all his work.
Blake felt a strong drive to make the Rebel Songs documentary because it offered a unique artistic challenge and the chance to capture a beautiful, profound story happening within his own community. His passion for exploring meaningful narratives and his dedication to pushing creative boundaries have shaped his role as the director of this project, as he seeks to bring the voices and experiences of these students to life
Bret Nelson
Producer
Bret Nelson is the producer of the Rebel Songs documentary, marking his first foray into film-making. With a strong background in project management and working peer-2-peer with businesses, he was drawn to this project to help capture the powerful stories of the students and highlight the transformative work of Rebel Song Academy.
Beyond serving as the sound man, Bret contributed to story-boarding, concept development, and various other aspects of the film-making process, working closely with director Blake Thorne.
With a passion for storytelling and a deep belief that the arts are a vital thread that weaves society together, Bret is committed to supporting creative programs in the community. Though he primarily works in a non-creative field, this project has pushed him to explore his potential as an artist and creator.