Butte, Montana: A New Hub for Storytelling Through Cinema and Music
This winter, the historic city of Butte, Montana, will transform into a vibrant celebration of storytelling with the inaugural NorthWest 360 Winter Fest. Scheduled from January 9 to 16, this international festival promises to be a unique blend of cinema, music, and community engagement, taking place across multiple venues in Uptown Butte, including the Covellite and Mother Lode Theatres, the local train depot, and an impressive 120 to 140-foot-tall dome at the Original Mine Yard.
A Festival with a Vision
Festival director Shera Konen is enthusiastic about the event, noting the impressive team behind the festival, which recently returned from creating a five-story structure at Burning Man. “You’re going to just start hearing a lot more about it,” Konen said, hinting at exciting announcements regarding performers and activities. The festival aims to showcase Butte’s growing reputation in the film and television industry, positioning it as a cultural hub that can attract visitors and stimulate the local economy during the typically quiet winter months.
Celebrating Film and Music
The NorthWest 360 Winter Fest will feature numerous film premieres, with awards being distributed in various categories, including separate distinctions for films with budgets above and below $10 million. This structure allows for a diverse range of films to be recognized, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and creativity. In addition to film screenings, attendees can look forward to a variety of engaging events, such as a poker tournament, a pro-am pool tournament, and pop-up shops and restaurants featuring celebrity chefs. Live music and comedy performances will further enrich the festival experience, making it a multifaceted celebration of the arts.
Notable Jury Members and Special Guests
The festival has already garnered attention with its selection of a distinguished jury to award prizes. Among the notable figures are Chris McGurk, former president of Disney Pictures, and Freida Lee Mock, an Academy and Emmy Award winner. Their involvement adds a layer of prestige to the festival, attracting filmmakers and artists eager to showcase their work and connect with industry veterans.
Community Impact and Economic Growth
Konen emphasizes the festival’s potential to boost Butte’s economy, stating, “An event like this can do that. In seven days, it can bring in a lot of money during a shoulder season that is normally really quiet for vendors and for hotels and for restaurants.” By drawing visitors from near and far, the festival aims to create a lasting impact on the local economy, encouraging growth and sustainability for businesses in the area.
Exciting Activities and Networking Opportunities
Beyond film screenings, the festival will offer a plethora of activities designed to engage attendees. VIP events and lounges will provide opportunities for meet-and-greets with filmmakers and actors, fostering connections within the industry. Konen mentioned ongoing discussions with actors from films shot in Butte, indicating that many familiar faces may be present at the festival, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.
Funding and Future Aspirations
The NorthWest 360 Winter Fest is being funded through a combination of donations and sponsorships, including support from renowned jewelry designer Rosalina Tran Lydster, who serves as the festival’s CEO. The organizers envision this festival becoming an annual event, with aspirations for a summer food and wine festival and educational programs throughout the year, such as writers and actors labs. Konen hopes that the festival will become an integral part of Butte’s cultural narrative, joining the ranks of other beloved local events like St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and the Folk Festival.
Ticketing and Volunteer Opportunities
As the festival approaches, ticketing details are being finalized, with an app currently in development to streamline the purchasing process. Attendees will have the option to buy day passes or tickets for specific events. Additionally, the festival organizers are seeking volunteers and sponsors to help bring this ambitious project to life, inviting community members to participate in what promises to be a landmark event for Butte.
Looking Ahead
More information about the NorthWest 360 Winter Fest will be released in the coming weeks, with organizers excited to share updates about performers, events, and ticketing options. As Butte prepares to welcome this new festival, the community is poised to embrace a celebration of storytelling that highlights the power of cinema and music to connect people and inspire creativity.
