For this episode, we explore key staff members who make a festival happen. Some of these staff members are year-round and shape the festival’s mission, while others come on for a shorter period of time, but whose contribution is immeasurable.

Our guests:

BETH BARRET, the Artistic Director for SIFF, the Seattle International FF. Beth has been with SIFF since 2003, and is responsible for managing the artistic vision of SIFF, including all aspects of programming for the Seattle International Film Festival, SIFF Cinema’s 6 year-round screens, and the SIFF Education team.

PAUL SLOOP has been the lead programmer of short films for the Oscar qualifying Cleveland International Film Festival since 2003. He is also the Director of Programming at Film Pittsburgh and the Director of Programming at the Cordillera International Film Festival.

BLAIR HUNT has amassed extensive experience in large-scale event management, producing events, securing talent, and serving in directorial capacities. Recently, she joined the Round Top Film Festival as the inaugural Festival Director.

EILEEN LEVEL is the “Queen of Volunteers” having developed successful volunteer programs for many events, including AFI DOCS. She is a champion of the cinema-going experience, having launched PaleFO Cinema.