Sundance Institute is teaming up with Choose Chicago and the Chicago Film Office to bring a new event, Sundance Institute x Chicago, to the Windy City in the upcoming summer. This event aims to not only showcase Chicago’s vibrant cultural scene but also to solidify its position as a hub for filmmaking. Scheduled to run from June 28 to June 30, Sundance Institute x Chicago will offer a platform for emerging artists to learn more about the Institute’s artist development programs. The event will include screenings of four films from the Sundance Film Festival, filmmaker Q&As, a short film program, a masterclass for underrepresented filmmakers, panel discussions at various venues, and a presentation about the Sundance Institute focusing on its artist programs and application processes.
The collaboration between Choose Chicago, the City of Chicago, and the Sundance Institute has been hailed as a significant moment for the city. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his excitement, stating that the event not only celebrates the city’s filmmaking heritage but also provides local talent with a unique opportunity to engage with industry leaders. Sundance Institute’s Festival Director, Eugene Hernandez, emphasized Chicago’s longstanding relationship with independent storytelling, highlighting the city as a source of inspiration for many artists with ties to the Institute through its Festival and artist support programs. The event underscores Chicago’s commitment to enriching its cultural landscape and fostering an environment where the arts can thrive.
Sundance Institute x Chicago 2024 is a welcome addition to Chicago’s already robust lineup of film events and programming. The city hosts more than 50 film festivals each year, solidifying its reputation as a key player in the industry. Leading up to the new event, Chicago will also be home to the Independent Film Exhibition Conference from June 25 to June 28. This conference, organized by Film Festival Alliance and Art House Convergence, will bring together over 500 industry stakeholders, including festival organizers, cinema operators, film distributors, and allied organizations. The conference serves as a testament to Chicago’s thriving film community and its importance on the national stage.
In recent news, the Sundance Institute announced a change in leadership, with Joana Vicente stepping down as CEO after two and a half years at the helm. Amanda Kelso will step in as Acting CEO, leading the organization through its upcoming endeavors. Additionally, the Institute revealed that the next Sundance Film Festival is set to take place in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah, from January 23 to February 2, 2025. These changes mark a new chapter for the Institute and its ongoing commitment to supporting independent filmmakers and storytelling.
Sundance Institute x Chicago 2024 promises to be a transformative event for both the city of Chicago and the film industry at large. By providing a platform for emerging artists to learn, collaborate, and showcase their work, the event will undoubtedly contribute to Chicago’s reputation as a cultural and filmmaking hub. With the support of key partners and industry stakeholders, Sundance Institute x Chicago is poised to make a significant impact and pave the way for future collaborations and opportunities in the world of independent film.
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