
Syndicated Radio Personality, Michael Baisden entertains the crowd.
August 21, 2011 — (Martha’s Vineyard, MA) –The Ninth Annual Run&Shooot Filmworks’ Annual Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival (MVAAFF), wrapped its ninth year by honoring independent filmmakers and producers.
The MVAAFF is a nurturing and competitive environment that allows emerging and established filmmakers to test their creativity. The festival took place in Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts between August 9-13
Co-founded by husband and wife team, Floyd and Stephanie Rance, the five day festival attracted more than 1000 guests, including sponsor representatives, filmmakers, directors, writers, actors, residents, shopkeepers and tourists on Martha’s Vineyard.
“We congratulate the 2011 winners and applaud all of the talent and creativity showcased throughout this year’s MVAAFF. Floyd and I are extremely excited about our upcoming 10th year celebration,” said Stephanie Rance. “Time has flown by. We are extremely proud of the work we have done thus far and look forward to a bright future on Martha’s Vineyard. We will also be launching a new addition to the Run&Shoot family in Feb 2012. Stay tuned!”
Macy’s returned as the festival’s premier sponsor and its VIP sailboat ride on the Tall Ship Alabama and Director’s brunch featuring Reuben Cannon, famed casting director and producer of Broadway play “Stick Fly” and, the director Kenny Leon were hot tickets.
“Macy’s salutes unique voices and diversity,” Lisa Walker, director of special events for Macy’s East. “We are delighted to return as the presenting sponsor. We applaud the festival’s founders, the emerging and accomplished talent and the boundless creativity.”
The five day festival, which showcased more than 55 independent films, workshops by Darrien Gipson, SAGIndie national director and Sheldon Levy, executive vice president at Saatchi & Saatchi Advertising, attracted more than 200 participants daily. Other sponsors included HBO, Lacoste, Saatchi & Saatchi, SAGIndie, Martha Vineyard’s Savings Bank, Monarch magazine, and Flavors.of.Her.
“Saatchi & Saatchi is proud of its longstanding commitment to the MVAFF and the incredibly talented filmmakers, writers, directors and producers,” said Levy. “Our internal jury finds judging our nominees extremely difficult because most of the work is compelling and artfully done. Even though we are only able to provide two awards, we encourage everyone to keep on shooting!”
About Run & Shoot Filmworks, Inc.
The mission of the festival’s production company is to provide a positive environment where filmmakers can share their thoughts, visions and aspirations. In addition, the company has produced commercials for clients such as Foot Action, Spaulding, Reebok, Nike and NBC Sports.
About HBO
Launched in November, 1972, Home Box Office, a division of Time Warner Entertainment Company, L.P., provides two 24-hour premium TV services, HBO and Cinemax, to subscribers across the United States via cable, C-band satellite, direct broadcast satellite and microwave. Each month, HBO offers more than 90 theatrical motion pictures –ranging from top box office hits to a broad spectrum of popular films, as well as exclusive programming, including original movies, series, comedy, documentaries, family shows, and world class sporting events.
About Macy’s
Macy’s, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc. (NYSE: M), delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at more than 800 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam. Macy’s stores and Macy’s.com offer distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy’s is known for such epic events as Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Building on a 150-year tradition, Macy’s helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities that make a difference in the lives of its customers.