Sundance Film Festival’s response to the announcement of leaving Park City, Utah
Parker City, Utah (AP) – Sundance Film Festival announced Thursday that its new home will be Boulder, Colorado, spending 40 years in Parker City, Utah starting in 2027.
The decision ends a year-long process in which many American cities compete to host the prestigious independent film festival, a launch pad for numerous directors, actors and Oscar contenders. The finalists were ultimately Boulder in Cincinnati, Ohio, and bids for Salt Lake City and Park City.
Sundance's new home, Boulder, even had connections with its founder, Robert Redford, who attended the university in the 1950s.
Here are some reactions to Sundance’s upcoming move:
“In our state, we celebrate the arts and film industry as the main economic drivers, job creators, and important contributors to our thriving culture. Now, with the increase in the iconic Sundance Film Festival, we can expect more work, which brings great benefits to small businesses, including shops and restaurants.” – Colorado Governor Jared Polis, in a statement.
“As I said from the beginning, we want Sundance to stay. We made it clear to their leadership and put together a highly competitive program. Ultimately, this decision was their decision, but I believe it was a mistake and one day they will realize that they are not only leaving a place, but a place, but their legacy.” – Utah Governor Spencer Cox in a statement.
“The Sundance Film Festival is a catalyst for innovation, creative expression, and the discovery of groundbreaking independent films that inspire and shape the future of storytelling. This process provides you with an opportunity to imagine how we design festivals while still being true to our programs and missions.” Acting Sundance CEO Amanda Kelso in a statement.
“This move will ensure that the festival continues its adventures, support innovative storytellers, promote independence, entertain and inspire audiences. I thank the Boulder community for its support and I look forward to seeing the impact of the festival there.” – Redford, in a statement.
“While we are naturally disappointed with this decision, Utah, Parker City and Salt Lake City have long been proud partners of the festival and we are grateful for its lasting impact on our community. We remain committed to cultivating the arts in Utah, where the spirit of storytelling will grow forever.” – Joint statement from the mayors of Parker City, Salt Lake City and the Utah Film Commission.
“While Cincinnati is not selected as the Sundance Film Festival, we are proud of how our city presents its dynamic characters in the film industry,” Kristen Schlotman, president of the film Cincinnati, said in a statement.
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Associated Press writers Hannah Schoenbaum and John Seewer contributed to the report.
