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Six-thousand people [8] flocked to the theaters last night, August 11, to see “Violeta se fue a los cielos” or “Violeta went to the heavens,” a film starring Francisca Gavilán as Violeta Parra, arguably the most famous Chilean singer in history. Parra won more viewers [11] for its premiere than "Green Lantern,” "The Smurfs,” "Super 8,” "Captain America" and the latest "Harry Potter.”

The film, based on Angel Parra’s book, portrays the life and work of Violeta Parra. Last night, it played in 21 theaters across the country. Director Andrés Wood has taken home international awards for several of his films including La Buena Vida, Historias De Footbal,  and Machuca.

Many consider the deceased singer – also a painter, sculptor, ceramist and master of embroidery - to be history’s most influential Chilean folklorist and the founder of Chilean popular music. Parra was born in San Carlos, Chile, on October 4, 1917 and died on February 5, 1967. In 1964, her work was displayed in the Louvre museum in Paris, France.

Playing Parra "is a gift, but I take it with respect and professionalism that the role needs," said Gavilán. [12]

Corrected 4:40 p.m on August 19.

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