Prof. Spike Reflects on His Earliest Ocean Memory & Treasured Rockport Locations
I first met longtime Rockport resident Prof. Spike on a nature walk along the breathtaking Atlantic Pathway, a roughly mile-and-a-half trail between Halibut Point State Park and Cathedral Avenue. Most Sunday mornings, a group of locals and those from away gather for a walk along this craggy stretch of coastline, taking in the sea air, the waves' rhythm, and the Magic Coast's unique beauty.
As we made our way past Cathedral Rocks toward Andrew’s Point, Spike would often launch into what I came to think of as Prof. Spike’s Rockport Geology 101 class, sharing insights into the ancient rock formations beneath our feet. With every story, his profound love for this landscape shone through.
It quickly became clear that Spike was someone I wanted to speak with for my journey along the beautiful and winding pathways of The Magic Coast. His reflections, remembrances, and geological wisdom will be featured later this summer when the series premieres on 1623 Studios.
For now, please enjoy this short preview clip, in which Spike shares his earliest memory of the ocean and a few treasured locations along the Magic Coast that continue to hold deep meaning for him.
Jason Burnett, Founder - Beach bum - Stargazer
The Healing Intensity of the Sea: Eva James on The Magic Coast
It’s been a little while since I last posted an update and today feels like the right moment to share where this journey has taken me.
Since I moved to Rockport at the end of December 2023, The Magic Coast has grown from a quiet idea into something both real and very much alive. I’ve spent the past few months filming, walking, listening, and connecting with people who, like me, have felt the deep and sometimes unexpected impact of coastal life. This project continues to take shape not just as a documentary series but as a deeply felt personal and spiritual journey.
Today, on Mother’s Day, I want to dedicate The Magic Coast to my mother, who passed away in 2023, just months before I made my home here in Rockport, which I would soon come to think of as The Magic Coast. She was the first person to teach me the power of presence, the magic of stillness, and the strength that comes from truly paying attention to the world around you. In many ways, this project is a reflection of those values—and a way of keeping her with me as I move forward.
In this segment, singer-songwriter Eva James shares her reflections on the peaceful intensity of the sea and how its rhythms shape her music and sense of self. Recorded live at the Rockport Public Library, Eva opens up about the inspiration behind her original song “Invincible”—a piece about resilience and standing your ground through life’s tides.
She then performs “Invincible” after describing her emotional connection to the ocean and the influence of Mother Ocean on her creative process.
The Magic Coast is an ongoing documentary project exploring the connection between coastal living and emotional well-being, creativity, and healing, told through intimate stories from the Cape Ann community. The series will begin airing soon(ish) on 1623 Studios, Cape Ann’s local access channel.
Thank you for following along as this project continues to grow. And to those remembering their mothers today—may the healing power of the ocean wash over you.
Welcome to Bear Cove Productions
Welcome to Bear Cove Productions – Capturing Stories Along the Magic Coast
At Bear Cove Productions, we believe every place has a story, and there’s no better canvas for storytelling than the stunning Cape Ann. This unique stretch of coastline, with its breath-taking, historic towns, and vibrant communities, inspires us to create cinematic stories that connect people to the places they love.
The Magic Coast Project
Our flagship project, The Magic Coast, is a heartfelt exploration of life along this remarkable shoreline. From the Breakwater to the Pebble Beach, this documentary brings to life the stories, memories, and essence of the people and landscapes that make this place so special.
Whether it’s a long-time resident sharing their favorite coastal tradition or a sweeping shot of the waves crashing against the cliffs, The Magic Coast is a celebration of the connections we all share with the places we call home.
Who We Are
Bear Cove Productions is an independent video production company dedicated to capturing the essence of Cape Ann and beyond. Founded by Jason Burnett, an experienced storyteller and videographer, our work reflects a passion for authentic narratives and breathtaking visuals.
With expertise in small-scale documentary filmmaking and client-focused promotional videos, Bear Cove Productions bridges the gap between creativity and professionalism.
What’s Next?
This blog will be your behind-the-scenes look at our creative process, project updates, and the stories that inspire us. In upcoming posts, you can expect:
Sneak peeks at The Magic Coast filming locations.
Interviews with community members who’ve shared their stories.
Insights into the art of videography and storytelling.
We’re thrilled to have you on this journey with us. Stay tuned as we continue to explore, film, and share the beauty and magic of the coast.
Join the Conversation
We’d love to hear from you! Do you have a favorite spot or memory along the Magic Coast? Share it with us by pressing that CONTACT button. Your stories might just inspire the next chapter of our journey.
Thank you for supporting Bear Cove Productions – where every story is infused with magic.