Vicki and Mike Deitzler, motivated by their late son Evan's passion for film, spearheaded the establishment of the Mount Gretna International Film Festival (MtGIFF). They approached Kerry Royer, Director of the Mt. Gretna Art Show, to initiate this endeavor, aiming to complement the renowned art show and aligning with Lebanon County's designation of 2024 as the "Year of the Arts." Cody Hassler, head Broadcast Video teacher at Cedar Crest High School, is aiding in managing the film submission and judging process, leveraging his connections to the program where Evan was once an active member. Additionally, three of Cody's students serve on the MtGIFF committee. Janice Balmer, a resident and volunteer of Mt. Gretna, has been enlisted to ensure the smooth operation of the volunteer team for the festival. Set to debut on August 18, 2024, from 12-3pm, the inaugural MtGIFF aims to provide a platform for both emerging and established filmmakers, reflecting their collective dedication to cinema as an art form.
The festival coincides with Mount Gretna's esteemed Outdoor Art Show, which has garnered national recognition and is also celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024. Held at the iconic Mount Gretna Playhouse, nestled within the wooded enclave of Pennsylvania's Chautauqua, the event promises a screening of carefully selected films alongside an awards ceremony, offering attendees a comprehensive experience celebrating the arts. With its roots deeply entrenched in the community and a mission to honor Evan's memory while fostering a vibrant cultural atmosphere, the Mount Gretna International Film Festival emerges as a testament to the enduring power of cinema and the arts to unite and inspire.
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