Locals Team Up to Help Working Families

On Nov. 15, Washington-Mid Atlantic Local Board members, members-at-large and staff joined nearly 300 industry professionals across the Mid-Atlantic region to celebrate Maryland’s entertainment industry at the Maryland Film Industry Coalition’s 10th annual Reel to Real Party.

This annual event not only celebrates the best of Maryland, but also raises funds to support and enhance the coalition’s mission to improve business conditions for the entertainment industry and ensure the continuation of a vibrant film production incentive program. Attendees were treated to an evening of great live music, networking, fantastic food and drinks; a silent and live auction featuring a wide selection of movie memorabilia; awards for up-and-coming student filmmakers; and a surprise appearance by John Waters, who was there to honor the work of lauded production designer Vincent Peranio.

Amid the stories and laughs shared throughout the evening, was the attendees’ passion to work toward the collective goal of attracting film and television productions to Maryland that create high-paying jobs for crews, actors and production staff.

Photo: Washington-Mid Atlantic Local President Lance Lewman, center, poses with members Gina Grinkemeyer and Anita Moore. Photo by Ashton Pilkerton/Pilkerton Photography

This item originally appeared in the SAG-AFTRA magazine spring 2020 issue.