NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025
A WORD FROM OUR DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT, THERESA SPENCER
As the year comes to a close, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for believing in the power of public media and for supporting NMPBS. Your generosity has made a real impact during a pivotal time.
Despite losing federal funding that made up 18% of our budget, our commitment to New Mexico has never wavered. It is truly inspiring to see that so many people have stepped up to protect the value of public media in our state.
Because of you, NMPBS continues to deliver powerful programming that educates, inspires, and connects: from impactful documentaries like POV and Independent Lens, to unforgettable dramas on MASTERPIECE, scientific discovery with NOVA, wildlife journeys on NATURE, iconic history from Ken Burns, and the very best in the arts through Great Performances.
You’ve kept the music playing, the history unfolding, and the conversations going. Public media has always been about people. And this year, you have remindedus that NMPBS is truly powered by our community.
Especially under current conditions, with PBS under threat, I will be increasing my monthly contribution. I love PBS, and Passport is the best bargain in town, fantastic shows, timely news and truly an educational treasure.
— Pam, Albuquerque
The American Revolution
Forging a Nation
Ken Burns is back with The American Revolution, a six-part, 12-hour documentary exploring the chaos, courage, and contradictions of a war that not only forged a nation, but reshaped the globe.
This compelling documentary explores the creation of the United States through the eyes of the people who lived it, not just the generals and founders, but also young soldiers, Native American warriors, free and enslaved African Americans, refugees, Loyalists, and ordinary people caught in the crossfire.
Directed by Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt, The American Revolution confronts uncomfortable truths. It looks at how the ideals of freedom and equality could coexist with injustice and exclusion, and how that tension birthed a new nation. More than a history lesson, The American Revolution is a chance to better understand how the struggles of the past still echo in our lives today.
Premieres Sunday, November 16, at 8 p.m., and airs for six consecutive nights through Friday, November 21. Watch live or stream with the PBS app.
Choice and Dignity
Independent Lens: Life After is a deeply personal and eye-opening film from disabled filmmaker Reid Davenport. He explores a subject many would prefer to avoid: assisted dying. This is a powerful examination of how society, policy, and prejudice shape the way disabled people experience life and autonomy.
Assumptions are challenged through candid interviews, real stories, and unflinching honesty. The film asks the difficult but necessary questions: Who truly has authority in making end-of-life decisions? What does “choice” mean when access, support, and care are not available to all?
Davenport does not shy away from the emotional weight of the topic, but what makes this film so compelling is its clarity, compassion, and refusal to offer easy answers.
Airs Monday, November 3, at 9 p.m. Watch live or stream with the PBS app.
Independent Lens: Life After
A More Perfect Union: Inspiring Civic & Civil Conversations Across America
United Through Conversation
A More Perfect Union: Inspiring Civic & Civil Conversations Across America is a one-hour PBS special that explores the enduring meaning of America’s founding ideals — liberty, democracy, and equality — 250 years later.
Filmed at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, the program features a thought-provoking conversation with Ken Burns and other leading thinkers.
At a time of deep national division, A More Perfect Union invites viewers to reimagine civic discourse through respectful dialogue rooted in the principles that shaped our nation. Discover how the American idea continues to influence our democracy and how each of us can help build a more perfect union for generations to come.
Airs Monday, November 24, at 8 p.m. Watch live or stream with the PBS app.
Thank you for bringing us truthful, in-depth reporting and thoughtful, inspiring programming. We desperately need you to continue this vital work and not give in to autocratic pressures.
— Lisa, Albuquerque
Into the Flock
What happens when a man becomes a mother to wild turkeys? In NATURE: My Life as a Turkey, naturalist Joe Hutto takes on the extraordinary role of raising 16 wild turkey chicks from hatchlings to adulthood.
In the wilds of Florida’s Flatlands, Hutto roosted with them, foraged with them, and protected them as their devoted guardian.
Along the way, he discovered their surprising curiosity, intelligence, and unique ways of seeing the world. Based on his remarkable true story, this moving film captures an unforgettable journey of connection between one man and the wild creatures who changed his life.
Witness a rare journey of coexistence and wonder in NATURE: My Life as a Turkey.
Premieres Wednesday, November 26, at 7 p.m. Watch live or stream with the PBS app.
NATURE: My Life as a Turkey
MASTERPIECE: The Great Escaper
Love and Valor
MASTERPIECE: The Great Escaper is a touching drama inspired by the remarkable true story of Bernard Jordan, a World War II veteran who slipped away from his nursing home to attend the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy.
Played with quiet strength by Michael Caine, Bernie’s trip is a mission of memory, love, and resilience. While Bernie travels across the Channel to honor his fallen comrades, his wife, Irene, portrayed by the late Glenda Jackson, reflects on their decades together and the enduring love that began during the chaos of war.
Don’t miss this moving portrait of courage in one soldier’s twilight years presented with warmth, humor, and a poignant reminder that some promises are never forgotten.
Premieres Sunday, November 23, at 8 p.m. Watch live or stream with the PBS app.
You don’t deserve to be defunded.
— Laura, Albuquerque
Honoring Our Heroes
This Veterans Day, NMPBS honors the service and sacrifice of our nation’s heroes with Salute to Service: A Veterans Day Celebration. This one-hour musical special blends powerful storytelling with stirring performances to recognize the courage, dedication, and resilience of America’s veterans past and present.
Featuring the United States Army Field Band and a dynamic lineup of musical guests, Salute to Service highlights the enduring spirit of those who have served. Whether you tune in for the music, the personal stories, or a moment of reflection, this program offers an unforgettable evening.
Airs Monday, November 10, at 8 p.m. Watch live or stream with the PBS app.
Salute to Service: A Veterans Day Celebration
PBS raised my husband and I! Thank you for all you do!
— Ester, Santa Fe
Call the Midwife: Holiday Special
Spend the Holidays with NMPBS
Celebrate the season with NMPBS as we bring you a lineup of festive programs filled with music, joy, and timeless traditions — perfect for gathering with loved ones.
We begin with Hope of the Season: Christmas with The Tabernacle Choir, a moving celebration of harmony and holiday cheer. Let the choir’s joyful melodies fill your home with the magic of Christmas. Airs Monday, December 15, at 8 p.m.
Let the wonder continue with Great Performances: The Nutcracker. This holiday favorite enchants audiences of all ages with its dazzling costumes, beloved Tchaikovsky score, and a magical tale of adventure and imagination. Airs Tuesday, December 16, at 8 p.m.
Then, experience a powerful twist on a classic with Too Hot to Handel: The Gospel Messiah. This vibrant performance blends gospel, jazz, and R&B with Handel’s iconic work, reimagined by conductors Marin Alsop, Bob Christianson, and Gary Anderson for a soul-stirring evening. Airs Wednesday, December 24, at 9:30 p.m.
Keep the spirit of compassion and community alive with Call the Midwife: Holiday Special. Return to Nonnatus House as the beloved midwives and nuns celebrate the season with heartfelt stories and time-honored traditions. Airs Thursday, December 25, at 8 p.m.
And as the year draws to a close, let’s toast to new beginnings with Great Performances — From Vienna: The New Year’s Celebration 2026. This elegant concert offers a grand start to the new year with waltzes, polkas, and musical brilliance. Airs Wednesday, December 31, at 8 p.m.
Watch live or stream with the PBS app.
December 2 is #GivingTuesday. This global day of generosity inspires people to give, collaborate, and strengthen their communities.
Join the movement with a tax-deductible gift to NMPBS. Your support ensures access to trusted, high-quality programming for everyone.
MEMBERSHIP HIGHLIGHTS
DG’S DELI
Offer: 2–for–1 entree
1418 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Ave.
NE, Albuquerque
(505) 247-3354
dgsdeliabq.com
GUILD CINEMA
Offer: 2-for-1 admission
3405 Central Ave.
NE Albuquerque
(505) 255-1848
guildcinema.com
OLIVE GARDEN
Offer: $5 off $50 eGift Card purchase
601 Juan Tabo Blvd.
NE Albuquerque
(505) 275-9948
olivegarden.com
Please visit the MemberCard app for most current information.
Every contribution makes a difference.
NMPBS Member & Viewer Services:
Telephone: 800-328-5663 or 505-277-2922
Email: [email protected]
1130 University Blvd. NE
Albuquerque, NM 87102