What is the name of your organization and what is your area of focus in the film and video space?
SeriesFest is a non-profit organization with a mission to champion and empower artists at the forefront of episodic storytelling by providing year-round opportunities for creators and industry experts to connect, collaborate, and share stories, which inspire and impact global audiences.
What’s your organization’s origin story?
SeriesFest was launched in 2015 as a three day festival hosted in Denver, CO. The promise of a destination festival was clear to the founders, Randi Kleiner and Kaily Smith. The city of Denver and our partners at DenverFilm embraced the idea of bringing filmmakers to the creative summit. Hosted at the SieFilm Center, SeriesFest: Season One celebrated television favorites and independent pilots like never before. It was clear that this storytelling community was unique and looking to connect which led to the evolution of the organization to what it is today.
What is your organization’s ethos and how does it set you apart from industry competitors?
SeriesFest is committed to leveling the playing field, with the goal of elevating the productions and content we promote to reflect the diversity in our communities. We are known for our curated approach to providing year round professional development opportunities, education programs, and marketplace meetings for emerging creatives.
What projects are you most proud of and why?
It’s hard to pick a favorite! Ten years of SeriesFest is something we are very proud of. Ten seasons of growing and creating a safe space for filmmakers to connect and create is something to be incredibly proud of.
What initiatives are you working on that you’re excited about?
It’s always exciting to work on the Women Directing Mentorship in partnership with Shondaland. We are in the fifth cycle of this partnership which seeks out and champions undiscovered directing talent. It’s a rewarding process and partnership.
What’s one part of the video and television industry you would change and why?
Part of the challenge of working in the television industry is the constant change; however, being open and nimble to new innovations and technology that further opportunities and grow audiences is something to truly be celebrated. Embracing all the changes in the entertainment is part of the joy of SeriesFest!
Where is there opportunity for collaboration or intersection between your community and the Telly community?
SeriesFest is always looking for new voices in the episodic storytelling space! Whether you have a web series or a pilot script our goal is to offer unique opportunities for creatives to showcase their ideas at the festival. Series:Fest Season 10 submissions are open through January 11, 2024.
How can people join or learn more about what you do?
The SeriesFest newsletter is a great way to keep up to date with the latest offers for emerging creatives and exciting festival announcements.