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COMMUNITY: Calgary launched film-friendly program

            (AlbertaIndex, July 2, Monday) --- Calgary Economic Development (CED) has launched the city’s film friendly program to help inform residents and businesses about film-making taking place in their communities.

            The launch of ‘Behind The Scenes’ program at the UPTOWN Stage & Screen theatre last week was attended by Mayor Dave Bronconnier, Alberta Film, Calgary’s film industry representatives and the CED. The program is a collaboration between CED, industry, government and community stakeholders.
           
Bruce Graham, CED’s President and CEO, said made-in Calgary films showcase the city to the world.
            He said: “Productions filmed here raise Calgary’s profile. They attract people to the city, to visit for business and even to live. These productions also add to our creative mix, generating hubs of energy and creativity around our city.
            “While exciting, these productions can be disruptive for communities. Often traffic and access to parking are affected. Strong community relationships and open communication are essential for successful film production in Calgary.”
            Mayor Bronconnier said: “Film making is an opportunity – for Calgary’s culture, its image and its economy. Having a film friendly city will serve to grow and strengthen Calgary’s already world-renowned film and television industry.”
            This sentiment has been heard among Calgary’s film and television industry representatives and they are asking Calgary’s communities to support this important industry.
            “This much-needed program is as vital to Calgary’s film community as it is to its citizens,” said Damian Petti, President, International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), Local 212. “Increasing communication between the film industry and the citizens of Calgary will allow them to take some pride in some of the positive aspects of these projects.”
            Through informative doorknob hangers and letters, communities will know in advance that filming will take place in their community. These tools communicate the benefits of the film industry to Calgary, encouraging communities and local businesses to be receptive to film and television production.
            Behind The Scenes partners include Alberta Film, Alberta Motion Picture Industries Association, Association of Canadian Television and Radio Artists, Alberta South, The City of Calgary, Directors Guild of Canada – Alberta District Council, International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Local 212, TEAMSTERS Local 362 and William F. White International Inc.
            The City of Calgary's 3-1-1, has also partnered with Behind The Scenes, providing immediate customer service and information at any time.
            The program aims to connect the local film and television industry with Calgary’s communities to bring stories to life.
            According to the CED, an average Calgary production spends approximately $90,000 daily. More than 3,000 Calgarians are employed full time in the film and television industry. In past projects, Calgary has been transformed into Afghanistan, Harlem, Hollywood and New York.

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