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This is Chris Redgrave for Zions Bank Speaking on Business.
Since the first Sundance Film Festival in 1981 the popularity of this annual event has grown beyond the first humble group of emerging filmmakers' imaginations. Thousands of films and talent have been discovered because of this Utah treasure. In fact, because of the national and international exposure, Sundance Film Festival is now the top film debut festival in the world.
When you consider the economic impact, Sundance films this year will be impressive with the 2015 festival opening January 22. In 2014, the 11-day Sundance Film Festival had an economic impact of almost $87 million. That's significantly higher than the almost $70 million it generated in 2013. Not to mention over 45,000 people attended, which brought in almost $7 million in tax revenue for the state. The festival also supported over 1,400 jobs, which is important in keeping keep Utah's unemployment number as one of the lowest in the nation.
The Sundance Film Festival is noted worldwide for the compelling and high-quality documentaries produced for the festival. Be sure to keep your eye open for this year's selection.
In past years, there has been a sense of limited ticket access for Utah locals. However, the Sundance Film Festival came up with the Locals Only Pass so locals can get tickets and enjoy the festival. Remember the films are not just in Park City but in Salt Lake City with numerous local venues including Tower, Broadway, Rose Wagner and the City Library. These represent thousands of tickets every day right in downtown.
Chances are the festival won't completely sell out so you can get tickets and see what this important economic engine is all about. Beyond the tax revenue, tourism dollars and global exposure, the Sundance Film Festival has a lasting cultural impact on the state. It develops talent, drawn to the film industry because of that impact.
As a community-focused organization, Zions Bank has been providing value to the communities in which we live and serve for over 140 years. Member FDIC.
For Zions Bank, I'm Chris Redgrave, speaking on business.
Sundance Film Festival 1- 435-776-7878 www.sundance.org
