An Evening Gala

The 3rd Annual Women in Film and Video/New England Gala took place on Thursday May 24th at the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel in Boston. Not only was this a night of celebrating the importance of women in the film industry, it also marked the 20th Anniversary of the organization. Attendees included writers, producers, editors, and actors, bringing together women in all areas of the industry. In the past, Image Awards were given out to honor women who make contributions to the local film community.

However, this year focused on WIFV's Video Project Grant which was given to the G.I.R.L.S (Growing Individuals Reacting to Life's Struggles) Project. WIFV/NE created the Community Outreach Video Grant in 1998. This grant provides a local non-profit organization whose mission is aligned with that of WIFV/NE, with a pro-bono promotional video. The Outreach Video Grant program is a collaboration between WIFV/NE and the Big Sister Association of Greater Boston. It is comprised of over 20 filmmakers, ranging from amateurs to professionals.  They are involved in the production process of the video from pre-production to the final edit.  Guests of the event had the opportunity to see the premiere of this year's video.

The Gala is an important event for women in the local film community because it spreads WIFV’s mission to create educational and employment opportunities for women of multi-ethnic and cultural backgrounds. The G.I.R.L.S Project was a perfect match for this night since the project's goal is to create a comfortable setting for girls to express themselves, learn leadership skills, develop educational opportunities and create social change in their communities.

To top off the night of festivities, singer, songwriter, and actress Rebecca Pidgeon was the honored guest at the celebration. The Cambridge, Massachusetts born actress was recently seen in "State and Main" and has received acclaim for her roles in "The Winslow Boy" and "The Spanish Prisoner." She recently completed production on "Heist," slated for release in late spring 2001.  She was given a plaque honoring her as a role model for young women in the industry. Pidgeon was very interested in the G.I.R.L.S. Project and spent time talking to the group. Also tying into the theme of the evening was up-and -coming performer, Jess Klein. She opened the night with "White Dove," an inspirational song highlighting the evening's theme.

Other highlights of the evening included: Co-Master of Ceremonies, Robert Patton-Spruill (Director of "Squeeze," and "Body Count"); Margie Reedy, host of the New England Cable News program, Newsnight; and music by East Groove Orchestra.