Out Film CT, producer of the Connecticut Gay & Lesbian Film Festival, has elected Shane Engstrom as its new Director. Engstrom succeeds Dan Millett who is stepping down after 11 years as the leader of the state’s oldest Film Festival. He brings over 6 years’ experience as Secretary of the organization. In addition, he has organized the wonderful parties that are a hallmark of the Festival, developed our website and done a lot of outreach to other organizations. Millett will stay on in an advisory role.
“With Shane as Director, Out Film CT is in good hands,” said out going director, Millett. “And the committee will continue to work together to ensure that audiences see the very best in LBGT films every year.” Since Millett became the director in 1997, the Connecticut Gay & Lesbian Film Festival has grown from a five-day event into a nine-day event. He also brought about the establishment of the EROS Film Festival in collaboration with Trinity College in 1999, increased support from national as well as local business and increased screenings throughout the year. This past year, the Festival was awarded the 2007 “Outstanding Project Award” by the Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism. Hartford has now one of the oldest and most respected LGBT Film Festivals in the country. “Under Dan’s outstanding leadership, the Festival has grown into the LGBT centerpiece of Connecticut’s cultural landscape, and I am honored to have the opportunity to carry on that legacy. Our Festival in June is one of the most anticipated events of the year for film lovers and the LGBT community. And this year will be no exception,” said Engstrom.
In addition, Bill Loehr will be taking on the responsibilities of Secretary for the organization. Loehr has attended the festival since it's inception and has been actively involved with the committee for over five years, managing the “Friends of the Festival” membership program and mailing list communications. “We’re fortunate to have the support of a great group of dedicated volunteers, and Bill is a key part of the team” continued Engstrom.
Indeed, Out Film CT expects a busy year in 2008. The Connecticut premiere of “Naked Boys Singing” takes place on Friday, January 18th at Cinestudio. This titillating new film has been drawing lovers of both the male physique and musical theater in equal numbers to screens all over the country. Now it comes to Hartford, so watch out! In addition, on Friday, February 15th, the fabulous Varla Jean Merman returns to Hartford for her new one woman show, “Varla Jean Merman Loves a Foreign Tongue!” This is a benefit for both Out Film CT and our home theater, Cinestudio. This one-woman show will be a highlight of the new year. And we are already looking at films for the 21st Connecticut Gay & Lesbian Film Festival which will open on Friday, May 30th. Mark your calendars now!