SAG-AFTRA Panel Encourages ‘Putting Your Creativity Out There’ at the Nevada City Film Festival

SAG-AFTRA welcomed the opportunity to connect with filmmakers and members during a panel at the 19th Annual Nevada City Film Festival. The Nevada City/Grass Valley area in California has quickly become a hotbed of creativity, churning out filmmakers and performers.

Those who attended the SAG-AFTRA panel on Aug. 24 at the NCFF headquarters were interested to learn more about coverage for professional performers. Rocky Capella, SAG-AFTRA member and stunt coordinator, shared stories from his own experience delving into the world of producing and directing with his debut, Guitar Man. Fellow local SAG-AFTRA member and area resident Richard Gross offered his insights working in both Los Angeles and San Francisco, with numerous credits on big-budget as well as independently produced projects. Katie Cronin, a SAG-AFTRA-franchised talent agent who started her career as a union performer, contributed her unique perspective. San Francisco-Northern California Local Board president Kathryn Howell enthusiastically explained the advantages of the newer theatrical contracts, demonstrating the ease of signing projects to the union contract. Local Business Rep Dee Dee Escobedo moderated. The message that resonated most with attendees was that SAG-AFTRA agreements allow creatives to “put their work out there.”
 
Top photo: Opening weekend of the NCFF wrapped up with an industry barbecue, including producers in attendance for the festival’s inaugural producers retreat, hosted by Karin Chien. From left, SAG-AFTRA Business Rep Dee Dee Escobedo, producer Vassiliki Khonsari, producer Christina King, S.F.-NorCal Local President Kathryn Howell and producer Kimberly Parker.