Upcoming Champaign-Urbana workshop connects filmmakers to local vendors

Simmy Wood
·2 min read

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Film Champaign-Urbana will soon host the second of several workshops for local film enthusiasts, focusing on how productions in the region can successfully work with area caterers, hotels, equipment rentals and more.

The workshop, entitled “So You Want to Be a Film Vendor?” will take place at Urbana’s Analog Wine Library on May 23 from 5 to 6 p.m. In addition to Film Champaign-Urbana, which is a part of Experience Champaign-Urbana, the class will be co-hosted by Shatterglass Films and The Line Film Co.

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“We are excited to work with Film Champaign-Urbana to expand the understanding of what it means to bring production work to the area and explain how businesses will feel the positive impact,” said Jennifer Shelby, co-owner of Shatterglass Films. “We are continuing our outreach and education series and focusing on all the types of vendors we use in this industry. Whether we are working on a short film, a documentary, a music video, or a feature-length film, it truly takes a village to make it all happen.”

“So You Want to Be a Film Vendor?” and other workshops are part of Film Champaign-Urbana’s ongoing effort to attract and support filmmakers. Last year, the organization established a locations database to help productions find local backdrops. Now, they’re developing a vendor database to connect those productions to nearby vendors and provide them necessities.

“With the soundstages coming to Rantoul, and an active group of local filmmakers and production companies, this industry continues to grow in our community,” said Mark Brown, Experience C-U’s Director of Sports, Events, and Film. “Ensuring the infrastructure is in place for large productions is critical to making a big impact on our local economy.”

To RSVP to the “So You Want to Be a Film Vendor?” workshop, visit Experience C-U’s website.

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