By: Deborah Johnson Wood
Since Michigan lawmakers passed the film tax incentive bill last April, filmmakers have flocked to the state, spending some $100 million in production-related costs and creating nearly 2,000 film-related jobs.
The exact numbers aren’t compiled yet, but Anthony Wenson, COO for the Michigan Film Office, says a good chunk of the money and many of the jobs went to West Michigan. So far, another 50 films could be shot in Michigan this year.
Recently the film industry announced another coup for the region: selection of the Waterfront Film Festival (WFF) as the first-ever West Michigan nonprofit (and one of only 52 nationwide) to host an Oscar Night America Party on February 22.
Students from Compass Film Academy, participants in TicTock Studios’ Film Crew Training Program and volunteers will transform a warehouse owned by Grand Rapids-based Levitation Staging, Inc., an event-staging company, into a Hollywood movie “back lot.” Plans include a screening-room theatre with riser seating for watching the telecast of the 81st Academy Awards; a catering tent featuring Michigan foods, wines and open bar; a VIP lounge where guests can relax and enjoy the evening; a video village with director’s chairs and TV monitors; and even the famed red carpet, complete with camera-happy paparazzi to greet guests.
“Guests will feel like they have stepped onto a movie set,” said Dana Depree Minter in a prepared statement. Minter is the WFF co-founder and event co-chair. “They’ll be watching the show – and will also have the opportunity to be part of the show – while supporting the Waterfront Film Festival.”
Musician and actor Brian Vander Ark, lead singer of The Verve Pipe, is honorary co-chair of the event. VIPs attending include Academy Award winners and celebrity bartenders.
The event raises funds for charities nationwide. For more information, to volunteer, or to purchase tickets, click here.
Source: Anthony Wenson, Michigan Film Office; Waterfront Film Festival; Molly Klimas, Intent Public Relations
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Deborah Johnson Wood is development news editor for Rapid Growth Media. She can be contacted at [email protected].
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