Moondance International Film Festival

MOONDANCE FILM FESTIVAL

No trees or natural habitats were harmed in the creation of this news-blog!

August2720150

Moondance Film Festival August News

Invitation to the 2015 Moondance International Film Festival

~ Whatever you want to do, do it now. There are only so many tomorrows ~

Moondance International Film Festival

September 7^th & 8^th, 2015

Beautiful Boulder, Colorado USA

The annual Moondance international Film Festival event is where you can see the very best of specially-selected US & international feature films, documentary films, short films, animation films, & music videos films, and have the best opportunity to network with colleagues, audiences, filmmakers, writers, composers, distribution executives, talent agents, international film industry celebrities & execs, at our famously productive networking parties, and to promote your project or film industry services!

EVENTS AT THE FILM FESTIVAL:

INDIE FILM SCREENINGS (documentaries, animation, music videos, feature & short films)
PROFESSIONAL WORKSHOP FOR FILMMAKERS & WRITERS (Titles & Logines)
PRODUCTIVE NETORKING PARTIES & EVENTS
PRIVATE CONSULTATIONS WITH THE PROS
SPECIAL VIP CELEBRITY FILMS
Q&As WITH THE ATTENDING FILM DIRECTORS
POSSIBLE CELEBRITY APPEARANCE
AFTERPARTIES
GALA AWARDS CEREMONY & RECEPTION!
A SPECIAL SURPRISE ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE FESTIVAL FOUNDER

COME JOIN US TO CELEBRATE THE 16th ANNUAL MOONDANCE!

~~~ September 7^th & 8^{th ~~~}

Tickets available online until September 5th.
Tickets available at the venue box office during the event days & times.

Check these links for 2015 festival info:

PROGRAM SCHEDULE

SCREENING SCHEDULE

FESTIVAL TICKET SALES

FILMS DESCRIPTIONS

ANNOUNCEMENT OF SELECTED FILMS

SPECIAL FILM SCREENING EVENTS

COMPETITION RESULTS – FILM AND FILM SCORES

COMPETITION RESULTS – WRITTEN WORKS

2015 MOONDANCE LAURELS

FIRST IMPRESSIONS WORKSHOP

NETWORKING & AWARDS EVENTS

TRAVEL INFO

BOULDER LODGING INFORMATION

FESTIVAL VOLUNTEERS WANTED!

You are cordially invited to volunteer to help out at the film festival!

All volunteers can earn free movie tickets for hours worked.

Contact Meghan at:

mailto:melaxton@hotmail.com

With “MIFF volunteer” in the subject line.

ANOTHER HAPPY MOONDANCER WRITES US!

“I have been absolutely thrilled and over the MOON to have been awarded a finalist placing in the 2015 Moondance competition! And already, yes, already inquiries have been made by an interested party about my screenplay ‘Devonside’. I will keep you guys posted. I have been a firm and faithful follower of Moondance for the past five years. I have yet to find a film festival as supportive, encouraging, and committed to their ‘people’ than the director and her team at Moondance. I look forward to the day when I can meet you in person, give you a huge hug and say ‘Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.’ Elizabeth English you rock !!“~ Craig Gibson

Congratulations, 2015 Moondance written works winners & top finalists! Your winning work can be posted at Inktip.com for free, as an extra Moondance bonus. I have sent the list of this season’s winners & top finalists to InkTip.com. Liz Rivera, of InkTip, will contact you via email to let you know the special code to have your 2015 Moondance-selected work on their website, at no cost to you. I highly recommend this popular & well-respected website for getting your script seen by many US & international producers, directors and agents who are looking for very the best work available today. Please be on the lookout for this important InkTip email!

MOONDANCE RECOMMENDS

TURN YOUR YARD INTO POLLINATOR PARADISE!

(or your balcony, patio, window box, garden, school yard, farm, &/or porch)

Photo: © Chris Helzer/TNC

Summer is the time of plenty for native pollinators, but creating pollinator habitat in your yard or garden means more than summer blooms. Summer flowers are great, but they are not enough to sustain healthy pollinator populations. Fortunately, it’s not difficult to create a pollinator paradise. This is a conservation initiative where you can create important habitat with just a small strip of plants in your backyard or garden or back porch (even one pot of flowering plants can create vital habitat). If you plant pollinatorfriendly plants, the pollinators will find it. Really. It’s that simple. How do you ensure that pollinators have healthy food, a place to nest and livable conditions?

1. Plant nectar- and pollen-rich flowers

2. Go organic

3. Provide shelter

4. Provide food and water

The best flowers to plant for pollinators: asters, butterfly bush, calendula, day lily, hollyhock, fennel, marigold, nasturtium, lavender, geranium, dahlia, wild rose, petunia, & many more:

When you begin planting, the key is to plant a diversity of plants that flower at different times of year. You are creating a seasonlong feast. Having a variety of flowers ensures these creatures can make it through the year.

We often associate bee nests with hives. But 70% of native bees nest in the ground. They dig little burrows that are used for rearing their young. Leaving a bare spot of earth near your pollinator garden can take care of most of the bee’s life needs in a small area. Many native bee species do not move very far. Bumble bees can cover longer distances (up to two miles). Many species only travel a few hundred feet or less.

In the popular media, pollinator conservation is all about honey bees. While the honey bee – and its sweet product – is easy to love, it is only one on a large list of pollinating insects. And it is not the most effective. There are some 4,ooo native bees in America, – a veritable pollinating army. Add to that pollinating wasps, butterflies, moths, birds, bats and more. So when you’re thinking pollinator habitat, go beyond the honey bee!

Don’t spray! The uses of neonicotinoids are not protecting agricultural crops – they’re used purely for cosmetic purposes around yards and residential developments. Even if you spray your yard but not your pollinator habitat, the pesticides can drift and kill feeding or nesting bees. These insects provide millions of dollars in ecosystem services each year by pollinating agricultural crops, and are a key component of wildlife ecosystems.

The Xerces Society is an organization devoted to conservation that has much more incredibly useful information on creating pollinator habitat! (Excerpts from an online article at the Nature Conservancy)

SOME THINGS TO THINK ABOUT

Babe Ruth at bat

“Setting a goal is not the main thing. It is deciding how you will go about achieving your goal, and staying with that plan.” ~ Tom Landry

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Oak tree at dawn, photo by www.alexnail.com

“I am not what happened to me; I am what I choose to become.” ~ Carl Jung

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“Love is all you need!” ~ John Lennon & Paul McCartney

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Please forward this news-blog to your creative artist colleagues & indie film buffs!

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS?

FESTIVAL TICKET SALES

No trees or natural habitats were harmed in the creation of this news-blog!

August2120150

Invitation to the 2015 Moondance & Happy Winners Write Us

Please refresh this page for the most current news-blog!

"Flatirons-Moonset", view from Boulder, Colorado / Photo by Charles Pfeil www.ArrowPhotos.com
“Flatirons-Moonset”, view from Boulder, Colorado / Photo by Charles Pfeil www.ArrowPhotos.com

INVITATION TO THE 2015 MOONDANCE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Moondance International Film Festival

September 7^th & 8th, 2015

Beautiful Boulder, Colorado USA

EVENTS AT THE FILM FESTIVAL:

INDIE FILM SCREENINGS (documentaries, animation, music videos, feature & short films)
PROFESSIONAL WORKSHOP FOR FILMMAKERS & WRITERS (Titles & Logines)
PRODUCTIVE NETWORKING PARTIES & EVENTS
PRIVATE CONSULTATIONS WITH THE PROS
SPECIAL VIP CELEBRITY FILM
Q&As WITH THE FILM DIRECTORS
NETWORKING AFTER-PARTIES
GALA AWARDS CEREMONY & RECEPTION!

Being fearless, Moondance is where monotonous conformity is considered mediocrity, and extravagant individualism, innovation, uniqueness and experimentation is encouraged, awarded and applauded!

COME JOIN US FOR THE 16th ANNUAL MOONDANCE!

September 7^th & 8^th,
6:PM – MidnightTickets available online & at the venue box office during the event days & times.

MOONDANCE FILM FESTIVAL

Check these links for 2015 festival info:

PROGRAM SCHEDULE

SCREENING SCHEDULE

FILMS DESCRIPTIONS

ANNOUNCEMENT OF SELECTED FILMS

SPECIAL FILM SCREENING EVENTS

COMPETITION RESULTS – FILM AND FILM SCORES

COMPETITION RESULTS – WRITTEN WORKS

2015 MOONDANCE LAURELS

FIRST IMPRESSIONS WORKSHOP

NETWORKING & AWARDS EVENTS

TRAVEL INFO

BOULDER LODGING INFORMATION

FESTIVAL VOLUNTEERS WANTED!

You are cordially invited to volunteer to help out at the film festival! All volunteers can earn free regular movie tickets for hours worked. Contact Meghan at: melaxton@hotmail.com

With “MIFF volunteer” in the subject line

VERY HAPPY 2015 MOONDANCERS WRITE US

“We here at Jim French Productions, Inc. were thrilled to learn this morning that the writers for our production: “The Beast of Hyndford” (a Sherlock Holmes full-cast audio drama pastiche) have been selected as winners in the Audio Drama Script category. Iain McLaughlin and Claire Bartlett (both in Scotland) and John Patrick Lowrie (here in Seattle, WA) are valuable contributing talent to our production company and to see them acknowledged so outside of the audio drama field is gratifying. Everyone we work with, from actors to writers to technicians are exceptional and make us what we are. We can’t thank you enough for the award and one of our representatives will be at Boulder this year to accept for them at the awards ceremony. Many thanks, “ ~ Jim French

“Thank you so much for advancing my script “CORNELIUS AND WILLOW” to the finals!! You have made my dreams come true!! Thank you! Blessings and Good Karma to you!!” ~ Melissa White

“Upon learning that my script “THE ASCENSION OF TWYLA POTTS” had won the 2015 Moondance International Film Festival, I did what any adult would do; I leapt about the room like a six-year-old in a tutu. I am honored to have received this prestigious award, and want to thank Elizabeth English for her enthusiastic and timely responses to all of my questions. What a rarity. And because of this festival, my work will finally receive the kind of professional exposure I have always dreamed of. The Moondance International Film Festival is, without question, the best!” ~ Fred Perry

“I can’t tell you how thrilled I was to learn that my audio drama script “5 LEVELS OF FEAR” is a winner in this year’s festival. What an honor. And a finalist spot for “Blue Velvet Box.” I’m over the moon! Moondance, although a film festival, is starting to get noticed by the audio drama community as a festival that is friendly to those of us who prefer to write and produce for the full-cast, fully sound-scaped spoken word. What an honor to be tapped by Moondance for a win. I look forward to meeting and talking with people at this year’s festival.” ~ Sable Jak

“I’m thrilled that “Hell’s Angel” was a winner for short screenplay!! We are hoping to raise the funds and shoot it this autumn. The award will really help with that, so THANK YOU!!” ~ Lou Hamilton, writer, director, producer, UK

“I am so honored to have been chosen as one of your winners in the 2015 Moondance! The feature screenplay I wrote, UNACCOMPANIED MINOR (Logline: A man accidentally uncovers a pedophilia ring and goes on the run with a young sex worker in order to save her life. Inspired by a true story.), will be greatly benefited by this prestigious win. It is inspired by the real life story of Rob Waterlander, and his efforts to bring awareness to child trafficking via airlines. Again, thank you so much for selecting my screenplay – what an amazing feeling it is!” ~ Kitania Kavey, the Netherlands

“I want to let you know how much your encouragement has meant to me. So many people have told me no one will ever produce the movie, because it’s a period piece with a female protagonist, ViCTORIA OF MURRAY HILL, and it won’t make money. Your belief in the project has kept me revising, trying to get the script as good as it can be. Who knows when the tides might turn.” ~ Kate Parks

“I just wanted to say a huge and heartfelt ‘thank you’ for the award being given to “The Beast of Hyndford” in the audio drama category. Claire Bartlette and I are both hugely surprised, delighted and very honoured. We became aware of the festival and the awards through Imagination Theater. In the past – and again this year – at Moondance you have highlighted the work of some remarkable storytellers who have told and continue to tell extraordinary stories. Claire and I are honoured to be alongside their number this year. We just wanted to send a heartfelt thank you to you and everyone involved for this honour. It means a great deal to us.” ~ Iain McLaughlin, Scotland

CHECK OUT THE MOONDANCE E-ZINE FOR THESE ARTICLES & MORE:

FIRST IMPRESSIONS:  TITLES & LOGLINES
WORKSHOP FOR WRITERS & FILMMAKERS

Presented by Elizabeth English
Monday, September 7^th, 2-4 PM
Hotel Boulderado,
Conference area Plaza Garden

Have a fabulous, unique idea for a movie? That’s wonderful,  but you need to know how to turn your great story  into a great title & logline.

SELL THE SIZZLE; NOT JUST THE STEAK!
WRITING DYNAMIC TITLES AND LOGLINES
HOW NOT TO WRITE A LOGLINE
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
LET’S WRITE A GREAT TITLE & LOGLINE
ADAPTING YOUR LOGLINE TO YOUR READER’S INTEREST
YOU CAN SELL YOUR PROJECT WITH THE TITLE & LOGLINE ALONE!

Every workshop attendee can work on getting a new & improved title & logline in this unique workshop!

MOONDANCE RECOMMENDS:

Click here to see our

MOONDANCE SPECIAL FILM SCREENING EVENTS INFO!

SOME THINGS TO THINK ABOUT

“Mer-folk” Sculpture by Charlotte Zink, of www.zinkmetalart.com

“If I could give you just one gift ever for the rest of your life it would be the gift of confidence.” ~ David Nicholls

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“The most precious thing that anyone can have is the goodwill of others.” ~ Anne Parish

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“Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.” ~ Abraham Lincoln

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‪africansweetheart.blogspot.com
africansweetheart.blogspot.com

“Follow your bliss, and the universe will open doors where there once were only walls.” ~ Joseph Campbell

Please forward this news-blog to your creative artist colleagues!

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS?

Very Special Film Events!

August1520150

2015 Moondance Selections Announced & Festival Info

“Freedom” by Zenos Frudakis

Being fearless & bold, Moondance is a film festival where monotonous conformity is considered mediocrity, and extravagant individualism, innovation, uniqueness and experimentation is encouraged, awarded and applauded!

Moondance International Film Festival dates:

September 7^th & 8th, 2015

Boulder, Colorado USA

Check out the links below for 2015 competition results & other info!

Moondance is known as the “American Cannes” of film festivals, and features the very best of indie films from the US and around the world, as well as our fabulously productive workshops, networking parties & special events. Come to be entertained, encouraged and inspired at this annual world-class event! Plan now to participate in this unique film festival event: September 7th & 8th, in beautiful Boulder, Colorado, USA, and help us celebrate the 16^th annual Moondance International Film Festival!

FESTIVAL VOLUNTEERS WANTED!

You are cordially invited to volunteer to help out at the film festival!

All volunteers can earn free regular movie tickets for hours worked.

Contact Meghan at:

melaxton@hotmail.com

With “MIFF volunteer” in the subject line.

MOONDANCE WEBSITE

Moondance International Film Festival Presents

“I Am” + Q&A with director Tom Shadyac

Monday, September 7^th, 7:PM @ eTown Hall

~and~

“The World is My Country” + Q&A*

Garry Davis

Special Free Sneak Preview

with director Arthur Kanegis

*This film to be screened at the Hotel Boulderado

Tuesday, September 8^th, 7:PM

$25 for the 2-film package

Special Event Double Feature: Two must-see revolutionary documentary films , presented by Moondance, Boulder’s #1 international film festival, in conjunction with the 16^th annual film festival films & events, : “I Am” directed by Tom Shadyac, and, as a free bonus, “The World is My Country” by award-winning director Arthur Kanegis, including a Q&A with the director immediately after each film screening. And a free networking after-party at the Hotel Boulderado’s new License #1 bar & lounge, 10:PM until midnight! This networking party is OYO (On Your Own, no tickets required). https://www.moondancefilmfestival.com

Sandboy

Monday, September 7^th, 7:PM

Hotel Boulderado • Columbine Theater

Short narrative film, directed by Vittoria Colonna (IRELAND, c& executive-produced by Julian Lennon (USA). In a sleepy Californian desert, sits an abandoned junkyard, an abandoned RV and an abandoned young woman haunted by a secret. Award-winning film score by Hugh Rodgers. The director & the lead actor, Wallis Murphy-Munn , will be in attendance, with possibly Julian Lennon, son of John Lennon & Yoko Ono.(23 minutes)

“SANDBOY”, directed by Vittoria Colonna

INDIGO GREY: The Passage

Monday, September 7^th, 7:PM

Hotel Boulderado • Columbine Theater

Shirt narrative music video, directed by: Sean Robinson (USA). A young boy’s discovery of a mysterious gas mask provides a glimpse into an alternate reality.   Featuring America’s Got Talent’s ‘Hammerstep’ a traditional Irish/hip-hop dance troupe, and nine-year-old prodigy Aidan Lok, who has a first degree black belt in Shotokan Karate and has won over 100 medals from international karate tournaments, and original score by Evanescence’s Amy Lee. (6 minutes)

INDIGO GREY: THE PASSAGE

Special Double-Feature Screenings!:

Tuesday, September 8^th, 7:PM

Hotel Boulderado • Alpine Theater

Food for Thought, Food for Life

Short documentary film, directed by Multi-award-winning Susan Rockefeller (USA). We want our food fast, convenient and cheap, but at what cost? As farms become supersized our environment suffers and so does the quality of our food.

Our Common Roots

Feature documentary film, directed by Glenn Axford (Canada). This film speaks to the therapeutic and energetic qualities of medicinal plants of the forest, field and garden. Reconnecting with the intelligence of the plant kingdom, and our global healing traditions.

MOONDANCE RECOMMENDS

Join the Elephant Stampede!

World Elephant Day was Wednesday, August 12, and this year we had something BIG to celebrate! President Obama recently introduced a proposal to ban ivory sales in the United States. Once enacted, this ban will close loopholes that have allowed smugglers to disguise ivory from recently killed elephants and sell them as antiques in the U.S. It will send a clear message that America is serious about shutting down the ivory trade and saving elephants. But the president’s proposal isn’t law yet. The administration is collecting public comments for 60 days and you can bet that opponents of the ivory ban (yes, there are people who oppose this common sense regulation) will be vocal. We need voices in support of the ban to #BeHerd.

Earlier this year, the Wildlife Conservation Society worked with the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) to investigate the ivory trade on Craigslist. But there’s more work to be done. Talk about a big statement! Recently, elephants and other endangered species lit up New York City, appearing on the side of the Empire State Building!

SOME THINGS TO THINK ABOUT

To acquire knowledge, one must study; but to acquire wisdom, one must observe. ~ Marilyn vos Savant

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Photo by Stephanie V.

“The key to success is trusting yourself.” ~ Scott Adams, Dilbert cartoonist

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Buster Keaton

“It isn’t the mountain ahead that wears you out; it’s the grain of sand in your shoe.” ~ Author Unknown

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“Flatirons-Moonset”, view from Boulder, Colorado / Photo by Charles Pfeil www.ArrowPhotos.com

“I’ve learned that everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the knowledge, experiences, growth and happiness occurs while you’re climbing it.” ~ Andy Rooney

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“Hollow Man” by Bruno Catalano

“It’s not how much money we make that ultimately makes us happy…it’s whether or not our work is fulfilling.” ~ Malcolm Gladwell

Please forward this news-blog to your creative artist colleagues!

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS?

MOONDANCE MISSION STATEMENT

No trees or natural habitats were harmed in the creation of this news-blog!

August1020150

THE MOONDANCE MISSION FOR PEACE & FESTIVAL INFO

Moondance International Film Festival dates:

September 7^th & 8th,, 2015

Boulder, Colorado USA

Moondance International Film Festival Presents

A Very Special Film Event!

“I Am” + Q&A with director Tom Shadyac

Monday, September 7^th, 7:PM @ eTown Hall

~and~

“The World is My Country” + Q&A*

with director Arthur Kanegis

*This film to be screened at the Hotel Boulderado

A Special Sneak Preview

Tuesday, September 8^th, 7:PM

Special Event Double Feature: Two must-see revolutionary documentary films , presented by Moondance, Boulder’s #1 international film festival, in conjunction with the 16^th annual film festival films & events, : “I Am” directed by Tom Shadyac (Ace Ventura, Pet Detective, Patch Adams, Bruce Almighty, Liar Liar) & “The World is My Country” by award-winning director Arthur Kanegis, including a Q&A with the director immediately after each film screening. And a free networking after-party at the Hotel Boulderado’s new License #1 bar & cocktail lounge, 10:PM until midnight!

FESTIVAL VOLUNTEERS WANTED!

You are cordially invited to volunteer to help out at the film festival!

All volunteers can earn free regular movie tickets for hours worked.

Contact our volunteer coordinator, Meghan Laxton, at:

melaxton@hotmail.com

With “MIFF Volunteer” in the subject line.

ALL OF THESE INFO LINKS ARE COMING SOON:
IN THE VERY NEXT NEWS-BLOG

ANNOUNCEMENT OF 2015 WINNERS, FINALISTS & SEMI-FINALISTS

ANNOUNCEMENT OF 2015 SELECTED FILMS

2015 FILM PROGRAM SCHEDULE

2015 FILMS DESCRIPTIONS

2015 FESTIVAL PROGRAM INFO

2015 FESTIVAL TICKET SALES

“When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will then know peace.” ~ Jimi Hendrix

Our mission is to present a vibrant and growing collection of films, writings & music, which is an ideal means for communication across perceived boundaries of race, culture, age and gender. Moondance promotes, encourages, educates and rewards non-violent conflict resolution in the arts and film. Our much-coveted Columbine Awards are given to the filmmakers and/or writers who best depict alternatives to violence as a method of dealing with conflicts, whether personal, local, national or international, and/or show why violence as a solution to conflict is ultimately counter-productive and inhumane. READ MORE

MOONDANCE STATEMENT ON NON-VIOLENCE

Our objective is to identify and address the root causes of violence and contribute to the just and peaceful transformation of violent conflict resolution, through the art of film, writings & music. The core of conflict transformation work is the building of a sustainable peace between all people. This involves a process of profound change in attitude, transforming situations characterized by fear and killing into environments in which reconciliation, respect for other people, social justice and participatory democracy can take root. READ MORE

A MOONDANCER WRITES US

“Thank you, Elizabeth, for your wonderfully helpful advice (on improving my screenplay). I agree that the reading experience, compared to the first iteration, is like chalk and cheese – so thank you! I can’t thank you enough for your care, attention and advice. It’s a privilege to be a part of your wonderful contest!” ~ Tony Heaver-Wren, screenwriter, Cayman Islands

Moondance International Film Festival dates:

September 7^th & 8th,, 2015

Boulder, Colorado USA

Check out the website for more info:

NEWS-BLOG: www.moondancefilmfestival.com/blog

THE POWER OF HEALING FOODS

SOME THINGS TO THINK ABOUT

Gandhi’s glasses

An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind. ~ Mahatma Gandhi

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“The most efficient way of attacking evil is to expose it to ridicule. It can bear rebukes, but not laughter. It doesn’t mind appearing wicked, but it hates to look ridiculous.” ~ Moliere (translated & edited for clarity)

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Photo: cbsnews.com

Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding. ~ Albert Einstein

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Guatemalan girl & tourist

Peace is not the absence of conflict; it is the ability to handle conflict by peaceful means. ~ Roland Reagan

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“Tricks of magic follow the archetypes of narrative fiction writing – there are tales of creation and loss, death and resurrection, and obstacles that must be overcome.” ~ Marco Tempest

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occasionalplanet.org

“Hard work spotlights the character of people: some turn up their sleeves, some turn up their noses, and some don’t turn up at all.” ~ Sam Ewing

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“People who say it can’t be done should not interrupt those who are doing it.” ~ Stephen Klasko & Richard W. Hevner, Thomas Jefferson University

MOONDANCE RECOMMENDS:

Story Jars encourage imagination and provide great fun for adults and children. A perfect gift for parents, grandparents and children! So many children these days spend too much time alone, surfing the web & on social media. The Story Jar comes with interesting and fun objects, including shells, toy animals and an assortment of curiosities that can be the basis of real or imaginary stories. In short, you have an “open book” of ideas that you can invent together. We provide the “starter kit”, which includes the Story Jar itself, plus about a third of a jar worth of interesting items. But the real excitement comes for both of you when you add some of the trinkets and little memorabilia from your own life.

It’s perfect for personal and family stories you may want to pass down from generation to generation. Start by picking one item from the jar and say, “Once Upon a Time…” which sets the mood for the story. There is nothing like a Story Jar to bring the stories to life! It’s perfect for personal and family stories that you may want to pass down from generation to generation. The kids love it, the parents love it and it’s something the young ones will remember and look forward to. And someday, they can pass it along to their kids and grand-kids. A genuine family legacy.

There is nothing like a Story Jar to bring those great stories to life! This is also great for teachers, libraries and the therapeutic community, all of whom see Story Jars as a valuable additional tool for learning & self-expression. READ MORE

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“An apple a day keeps the doctor away!”

Treating disease with healing foods is certainly not a new idea; it has been done for many thousands of years. Now science and medicine have made amazing discoveries regarding the healing power of these natural foods and plants. Healthful, readily available and inexpensive natural, organic healing foods can strengthen your body’s defenses against disease, treat disease directly, and even slow down the aging process. All without expensive and potentially toxic prescription medicines & over-the-counter medications.

The underlying cause of many common diseases is often the type of foods we eat on a regular basis, or foods we neglect to eat. Studies show that people who eat a lot of refined carbohydrates, animal fats, and a lot of animal protein are at much greater risk of developing diseases and a shorter, less healthy lifespan. Read more at: http://www.foods-healing-power.com/

NATURE’S MEDICINE

Lavender, for peacefulness, serenity & sleep

There are times when it’s much smarter to use an herbal remedy than a pharmaceutical. For example, an herbal remedy usually offers a safer alternative. Archaeological evidence indicates that the use of medicinal plants, essential oils, herbal extracts, spices, tinctures and herbal teas for healing dates to at least the Paleolithic, approximately 60,000 years ago. Written evidence of herbal remedies, such as ayurvedic remedies, can date back to over 5,000 years.

Native Americans have medicinally used about 2,500 plant species that are native to North America. Many herbs have beneficial effects on long-term health, and can be used to effectively treat human diseases. Few traditional remedies, however, have translated into modern drugs, although there is continuing research into the efficacy and possible adaptation of traditional herbal treatments.

Here are just a few of these common herbal remedies one can utilize, instead of prescription drugs: aloe vera, basil, chamomile, ginger, ginseng, kelp, lavender, marijuana, quinine, rosemary, tumeric & valerian. If you are taking prescription drugs, be sure to check online or with your doctor if there might be any adverse reactions when combining the two.

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BRAVE BOULDER OWL VIDEO GOES VIRAL!

“Only in Boulder!”

Photo courtesy of Boulder County Sheriff’s Office

A young northern saw-whet owl stands on Rainbow Lakes Road near Nederland on July 21 as Boulder County sheriff’s Deputy Sophie Berman takes a photo. The photos of the small, fuzzy owl photo & video taken by the sheriff’s office have gone viral. Watch the YouTube video here. A fluffy little owl photographed and videotaped last week staring down a Boulder County sheriff’s deputy outside Nederland has become a worldwide Internet star, with the pint-sized bird appearing all over social media and on the websites of Time, Mashable, the U.K.’s Daily Mail and many more. Read the Daily Camera article, by Mitchell Byars, Staff Writer

Please forward this news-blog to your creative artist colleagues!

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS?

No trees or natural habitats were harmed in the creation of this news-blog!

July2020150

Moondance Insider tips: When and How to Follow Up & Women Writers in Residence info

African Animals sculpture: r-atencio.blogspot.com.jpg

Ephemeral African Animals sand sculpture, artist unknown

Being fearless, Moondance is where monotonous conformity is considered mediocrity, and extravagant individualism, innovation, uniqueness and experimentation is encouraged, awarded and applauded!

Thanks again, for all the very fine submissions received. Sending your work out into the world is a true act of bravery, and we certainly appreciate your leap of faith. Announcements of winners, finalists & semi-finalists, as well as the film-screening program of selected films, will be made in August.

Subscribe now to the Moondance news-blog to receive announcements, and the 2015 competition results, as soon as all the submissions have been previewed, and selection decisions have been made. Our very popular news-blog also has festival event info, entertainment industry news, insider tips & articles, recommendations, things to consider & more!

Moondance International Film Festival dates:

Monday & Tuesday, September 7^th & 8th,, 2015

(with an Early-bird networking party on Sunday afternoon 4-6:PM)

Beautiful Boulder, Colorado USA

EARLY-BIRD 2015 FILM FESTIVAL INFO:

Check out the website for more info:

EARLY-BIRD 2015 FILM FESTIVAL INFO:

NEWS-BLOG: www.moondancefilmfestival.com/blog

A MOONDANCER WRITES US

“The Moondance Festival I helped with was one of the most enjoyable experiences in my life. I am an actor and I had so much fun as an emcee, guiding, helping at a table, and attending a dinner. I was also a part of the CASA group that performed for a small audience in one of the theatres that year. Thank you for all that you are doing to promote such talented and creative people. My husband Lynn and I would love to volunteer again for the 2015 festival. ~ Lee Nicholson

INSIDER TIPS!

StoryPower – When and How to Follow Up!

InkTip Advice: The Follow-up

You’re getting your work out there, and people are asking to read your material. You’ve sent it in to them. Congratulations, you’re on the path to success. So, what do you do now, sit back and wait for the offers to roll in? Read this article to learn more!

Moondance note on how NOT to follow up: It’s best not to call, text or email someone who has asked to see your work, or when you’ve submitted it to a competition, to put him or her on the spot by asking the 3 dreaded questions, “Did you get my (script, films, music, etc.)?” and “Did you (read it, watch it, listen to it?” or worst of all, “Did you like it?”. Don’t even think about it!

ATTENTION, WOMEN WRITERS!

MOONDANCE RECOMMENDS:

Hedgebrook is a global community of women writers and people who seek extraordinary books, poetry, plays, films and music by women. A literary nonprofit, our mission is to support visionary women writers whose stories and ideas shape our culture now and for generations to come. We offer writing residencies, master classes and salons at our retreat on Whidbey Island, and public programs that connect writers with readers and audiences around the world. Hedgebrook offers a variety of ways for women writers to create and connect: www.hedgebrook.org

Six writers are in residence at a time, each housed in a handcrafted cottage. They spend their days in solitude – writing, reading, taking walks in the woods on the property or on nearby Double Bluff beach. In the evenings, they gather in the farmhouse kitchen to share a home-cooked gourmet meal, their work, their process and their stories. Applications are due by July 28^th! www.hedgebrook.org/writers-in-residence/

SOME THINGS TO THINK ABOUT:

Photo by: miriadna.com

“Cease to ask what the morrow will bring forth. Set down as a gain each day that fortune grants to you.” ~ Eudora Welty

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photo by ‪www.volusia.org

“If you would be wise, you must adapt yourself to circumstances, as water always shapes itself to the container that holds it.” ~ Ancient Chinese Proverb

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‪Photo by misskarenmarquez.edublogs.org

“Life is the perpetual present moment one lives in, and a perception that time is nothing more than the current…an eternal flowing back to the sea.” ~William Least Heat-Moon, author, “River Horse”

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“When we are out of alignment with ourselves, it is mirrored immediately – when we are in harmony with ourselves, the world reflects that, too. Accept the lessons offered, and return to serenity.” ~ Lynne Forrest

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“I am not what happened to me; I am what I choose to become.” ~ Carl Jung

Please forward this news-blog to your creative artist colleagues!

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS?

reservations@boulderado.com

No trees or natural habitats were harmed for this news-blog!

July1520150

Moondance Insider Tips on Filming with Drones + the Power of Words

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain

PLAN TO ATTEND THE 2015

MOONDANCE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL!

Film Festival dates:

September 7^th & 8th, 2015

Boulder, Colorado USA
2015 Moondance historic landmark venue:

Hotel Boulderado

2115 Thirteenth Street

Boulder, CO 80302 USA

303-442-4344

EARLY-BIRD 2015 FILM FESTIVAL INFO:

2015 BOULDER LODGING INFO

Check out the website for more info:

NEWS-BLOG: www.moondancefilmfestival.com/blog

https://www.youtube.com/embed/REP4S0uqEOc

Subscribe now to the Moondance news-blog to receive announcements, and the 2015 competition results, as soon as all the submissions have been previewed, and selection decisions have been made. Our very popular news-blog also has festival event info, entertainment industry news, insider tips, articles, recommendations, things to consider & more!

THE POWER OF WORDS

WATCH THIS SHORT, INSPIRING VIDEO!

INSIDER TIPS:

SHOOTING FILMS WITH A DRONE!

BY Sebastian Solberg

Drones are revolutionizing filmmaking, allowing filmmakers to achieve jaw-dropping, cinematic results that have previously only been available to hugely expensive Hollywood productions! Drone technology won’t turn you into a great filmmaker but it will enhance your skills as a story-teller, and, if used well, will make your work shine. If you’re wanting to get high-production value shots for your next film project and you’re looking at using a drone, here are top ten tips on how to get that money-shot safely & to watch a cool drone tutorial! Also available: something just as impressive – a camera-equipped quadcopter drone that can land on the water and shoot underwater footage, too!

MOONDANCE RECOMMENDS

From www.change.org: Did you know that Gap Inc. profits from animals’ inhumane suffering in the fur industry? Raccoon dogs, foxes, rabbits, mink, and even kangaroos are slaughtered and skinned for Gap Inc.’s Intermix stores despite this widespread cruelty to animals who are often beaten, electrocuted, or bled to death for their fur. A spokesperson for Gap Inc. said: “We are committed to the ethical sourcing of our products, which includes the humane treatment of animals,” but they have stopped short of putting this policy in place across all stores. Many Gap, Inc. fur products are made in China, a country with virtually nonexistent animal cruelty laws. If they claim to care about humane treatment of animals, why are they allowing their Intermix stores all over the world to continue selling fur coats, hats, gloves, and other accessories from animals killed? Please take a stand right now against the heartless slaughter of animals! Please sign this petition asking Gap Inc. to go completely fur-free!

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Please enjoy watching this lovely 5-minute video:

“THE BIRDS OF PARADISE”

by Tim Lama & Ed Scholes

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Watch “Cheerleader” Pom-pom Crabs waving stinging sea anemones in their claws to protect themselves against predators!

Wish you had these when dealing with Hollywood producers?

SOME THINGS TO THINK ABOUT:

“Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in complete harmony” ~ Mahatma Gandhi

“Memory is like a child wandering along the seashore. You can never tell what special small pebble or luminous seashell it will pick up and keep among its most precious treasures.” ~ P. Harris (edited)

“When we long for a life without difficulties, remember that oak trees grow old and strong in contrary winds, and diamonds are made under long years of great pressure.” ~ Peter Marshall

Please forward this news-blog to your creative artist colleagues!

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS?

No trees or natural habitats were harmed in the creation of this news-blog!

June3020150

A Great Big 2015 Moondance Thank-you!

Happy Independence Day

to all our American Moondancers!

THE 2015 SUBMISSION DEADLINE HAS NOW PASSED.

Thanks a million for all the fine submissions we’ve received this season, from Colorado, the USA & 29 other countries*! Previewing & judging of all submissions is now taking place. Results of the competition results are planned to be announced at the end of July.The screening schedule for selected films is planned to be announced in early August.

Subscribe now to the Moondance news-blog to receive announcements, and the 2015 competition results, as soon as all the submissions have been previewed, and selection decisions have been made. Our very popular news-blog also has festival event info, entertainment industry news, insider articles, recommendations, things to consider & more!

Moondance International Film Festival dates:

September 7^th & 8th,, 2015

Boulder, Colorado USA

The 2015 Moondance Victorian-era historic landmark venue:

Hotel Boulderado

2115 Thirteenth Street

Boulder, CO 80302 USA

303-442-4344

reservations@boulderado.com

EARLY-BIRD 2015 FILM FESTIVAL INFO:

Check out the website for more info:

NEWS-BLOG: www.moondancefilmfestival.com/blog

MOONDANCE FILM FESTIVAL TICKETS WILL GO ON SALE SOON!

Moondance is different from most other film festivals in that it’s actually affordable, and user-friendly. You can register upon arrival, during the festival, and/or in advance on the Moondance website. There is no general festival registration fee at all. You can buy tickets to film screenings for $10 each. The networking parties & after-parties are all on-your-own (OYO), and the awards ceremony is only $25, with the awards reception afterwards also being OYO. There is also a special 10-film package for $75. All film tickets are generic & can be used for any film, any day, any theater, by any ticket-holder.

*Filmmakers, writers & composers from the US & these foreign countries submitted films, scripts & music in 2015: Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Cayman Islands, Denmark, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, India, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Marshall Islands, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Slovakia, South Africa, Spain, Syria, Thailand, Trinidad/Tobago, Turkey, UK, & Ukraine!

MOONDANCE RECOMMENDS:

THE INTERNATIONAL FUND FOR ANIMAL WELFARE is currently one of the largest animal welfare and conservation charities in the world. The group’s declared mission is to “rescue and protect animals around the world.” Our Animal Action Education programme helps children learn and care about animals. Please donate today: www.ifaw.org/

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Please support this feature-length documentary, CRUTCH. It’s the cool and inspiring story of absolutely amazing performance artist, Bill Shannon. Bill’s been on crutches since he was a little boy (because of a disease called Legg-Calve-Perthes). Around the same time, Bill began to realize he had an irrepressible desire to dance, and that he was gifted at it. Break-dancing on his crutches, Bill became an underground legend — nicknamed “Crutch.” Once he added a skateboard into the mix, Bill’s unique talent began earning him worldwide acclaim: performances at the Tate Modern in London, dancing & choreographing for the Cirque du Soleil, & etc. For the last 10+ years, two passionate documentary filmmakers — Sachi Cunningham & Chandler Evans — have been chronicling Bill’s public ascent through the performance art world, and his private struggles with an increasingly painful “disability.” Check out the trailer: CLICK HERE TO WATCH If you dig it, please join the global community of CRUTCH fans & supporters!

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FINDING ABILITY IN DISABILITY!

Stage 32 member Brandi Thomas currently attends Florida State University and is pursuing a degree in Commercial Music. In the past four months, Brandi has been hired onto eight film scoring jobs through Stage 32 and is a shining example of the power of putting yourself out there and networking within the Stage 32 community. One of the many things I love about Brandi is her selfless approach to networking, namely her willingness to put others first, contribute wherever and whenever possible and always spreading positivity. In this entry, Brandi discusses the obstacles she faced growing up with a disability and how that affected her pursuing a career in composing. With beautiful honesty, Brandi discusses how the only thing holding her back was herself and how once she let go of her fear of rejection she was unstoppable. This is an inspiring read for any creative no matter your discipline or background and the perfect way to kick start the week. To continue reading “Finding Ability In Disability”, click HERE!

RE: My comments on this blog: “Thank you for sharing, Elizabeth! And I thought you were inspiring before I read this.” ~ Richard “RB” Botto, Founder & CEO of www.Stage32.com

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ENJOY THIS NICE VIDEO & ARABIC MUSIC:

Mosaics such as these are an integral part of the Arabic culture.

FROM CLAY TO MOSAICS

http://safeshare.tv/w/GjbfgUhina

SOME THINGS TO THINK ABOUT:

“Instead of seeing the rug being pulled out from under us, we can learn to dance on a shifting carpet!” ~ Thomas Crum

“Amelia”, photo by SK

“We gain strength, and courage, and confidence by each experience in which we really stop to look fear in the face… we must do that which we think we cannot.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

The Dalai Lama

“Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions. ~ The Dalai Lama

Elena Shumilova, photographer, Russia

“As long as you’ve never loved an animal, a part of your soul is still asleep.” ~ Anatole France

INSIDER TIPS:

GREAT SCREENPLAY WRITING PART 3 – CHARACTERS

By: Wendy Kram

Great screenplay writing starts with an attention-grabbing, unique, compelling character. It’s one of the most important ingredients to attract a star and third party financier. For investors to determine whether or not they want to finance a particular screenplay, they need to maximize the odds that they will attract a large audience and get a return on their investment. Today, a medium-budget movie can cost $20 million, plus another $20 million in print and advertising to promote it.

That’s A LOT of money! Short of having a pre-established brand with a built-in, guaranteed audience such as a best-selling novel or a comic book action hero, which only studios with deep pockets can afford — what is the tipping point that will make an investor want to finance a project?

The answer is simple – they fall in love with the screenplay. But what makes people fall in love with your script? They may feel the subject matter is important, but above all, they fall in love with a character, become deeply intrigued and drawn into his or her journey. The same is true for actors and directors. With a compelling character, the investor hedge their bets, feel more confident in the ability to attract a star. Attaching a star in turn provides further assurance the film will perform well at the box office and they will receive a return on their investment.- Read more

Wendy Kram is a producer and the owner of L.A. FOR HIRE, one of the industry’s leading consulting companies for screenwriters, filmmakers and production companies.

Please forward this news-blog to your creative artist colleagues!

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS?

No trees or natural habitats were harmed in the creation of the Moondance news-blog!

June2220150

Make a Splash at the 2015 Moondance!

~~~ Happy Summer Solstice to all Moondancers! ~~~

Photo by Clark Little

You can make a big splash at Moondance 2015. Submit your entry now!

CALL-FOR-ENTRIES EXTENDED FINAL DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS:

JUNE 30^TH

Thanks a million to all those talented filmmakers, writers & composers who have already submitted their entries for 2015!

Please note: Films may be submitted to Moondance by the director, producers, cinematographer, DP, film score composer, writer, editor or a lead actor(, with permission from the producer/director, as needed!

See our submission categories HERE!

Feature, short, documentary, & animation films, music videos, screenplays, stageplays, radio plays, short stories, treatments, kids scripts & films, TV pilots, and more!

Read our submission guidelines HERE!

Official Entry Form HERE!

Moondance now also accepts scripts for judging in these languages:

FRENCH, SPANISH, GERMAN, DUTCH & AFRICAANS.

Moondance International Film Festival dates:

September 7^th & 8th,, 2015

Boulder, Colorado USA

Check out the website for more info:

SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWS-BLOG: www.moondancefilmfestival.com/blog

http://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/FragmentedFilm2015

MOOONDANCE RECOMMENDS:

INKTIP.COM NEWS

24 production companies joined InkTip in the past month alone, to look for new scripts to produce!

List your scripts now to take full advantage of producers looking to option scripts and discover new writers. As you may know, we launched a new pricing structure to make it easier for writers to list multiple scripts. The more scripts you list on InkTip, the more visible you become to our growing network of producers and reps. Log in here to list your scripts now and make them visible to the 24 production companies that just joined InkTip – as well as the dozens of producers who already hired multiple writers and optioned over 70 scripts so far this year – not to mention the many more producers who will option scripts very soon. New producers sign up and use InkTip every week, to find the scripts and writers they are looking for!

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“FRAGMENTED: THE HIDDEN HEROES OF BORNEO”

ABOUT THE FILM:

“Fragmented: the Hidden Heroes of Borneo”, from UK directors Stephanie Sammann and Ellie Mackay, explores the unusual conservation efforts by researchers in Northern Malaysian Borneo, where palm oil deforestation threatens one of the most treasured & wild parts of the planet. The forested depths of Borneo are home to some of the world’s most unique animals & plants, and at the current rate of deforestation, they are on the brink of being lost forever.

Within the ecological disaster unfolding around them, our unlikely protagonists work to protect some of the world’s most peculiar creatures against the impending destruction. From incredibly rare frogs, to impossibly strange insects, the scientists’ dedication to their subjects can be both baffling and moving. Their conservation methods are far from conventional, and the complicated relationship between the SAFE Project and the local palm oil corporations shows that the conservation story that we have all heard may not be all that it seems. More than just a nature documentary, Fragmented tells the story of the very human aspect behind one of the wildest places on earth. www.fragmentedfilm.com

The story of conservation in Borneo is an essential one to tell.

How YOU can help:

MOONDANCERS WRITE US:

“Labor Day weekend would certainly be a marvelous night for a moon dance in Boulder Colorado!”
~ Brian Connors, director, “Good Men”, short film, starring Ed Asner & Mark Rydell

“Karen Pearlman and I so appreciated your support of the first work of our Physical TV Company A Dancer Drops Out Of The Sky in the early days of Moondance. Many thanks and congratulations on what you have achieved over all these years with this festival.”
~ Richard James Allen

“So Moondance goes on its wonderful way. What a fine gateway you’ve created. I have decided you are an archetype…not sure which…but one of the good guys. Truly great work. Marguerite and I just smile when we think of you!”
~ Gino Matteo, playwright, 2014 winner, “Nellie” libretto

“I would love to offer my help for the Moondance Festival. Please let me know when you are ready to sign up volunteers. I will forever remember how wonderful an experience I had helping in the past.”
~ Lee Nicholson

STAGE 32 MEET-UP AT THE MOONDANCE INT’L FILM FESTIVAL!

WHERE:

Hotel Boulderado

2115 13th street

Boulder, Colorado

WHEN:

Monday, September 7th

4:00 – 6:00 PM

Please RSVP at the above invitation link, or just show up & join us!

JOIN STAGE 32 HERE!

Everyone within the International Film, TV and Theater industry can benefit from being a Stage32 member & networking with other members. The Stage 32 community is strictly for people working in or with a desire to work in film, television or theater. It’s a place to gather, to discuss and develop projects, to join actor with director, director with producer, producer with cast and crew, maybe even find financial support for filmmaking, promote your project, and connect screenwriters with agents, producers and directors. Here, you can grow your contact list and build a pertinent network in a rapid fashion. The more you participate, the greater the results. As the saying goes, it’s not only what you know, it’s also who you know. So, don’t wait for things to happen, make them happen. With over 400,000 members from every country on the planet, Stage 32 is the vital social network and educational hub for the film, television and theater community, and is uniquely populated with the most creative people on Earth. Join Stage 32 today and start building your world-wide entertainment industry network.

SOME THINGS TO THINK ABOUT:

SHOULD OR MUST?

Excerpts from

“The Crossroads of Should and Must: Find and Follow Your Passion”

By Elle Luna

Van Gogh, Chambre – Arles”

“Does what goes on inside show on the outside?,” young Vincent van Gogh despaired in a moving letter to his brother while floundering to find his purpose. “Someone has a great fire in his soul and nobody ever comes to warm themselves at it, and passers-by see only a wisp of smoke from the chimney.” A century later, Joseph Campbell stoked that hearth of the soul with his foundational treatise on finding your bliss. And yet every day, countless hearths and hearts grow ashen in cubicles around the world as we succumb to the all-too-human tendency toward choosing what we should be doing in order to make a living over what we must do in order to feel alive.

Sometimes, Shoulds are small, seemingly innocuous, and easily accommodated. “You should listen to that song,” for example. At other times, Shoulds are highly influential systems of thought that pressure and, at their most destructive, coerce us to live our lives differently.

Must is when we stop conforming to other people’s ideals and start connecting to our own – and this allows us to cultivate our full potential as individuals. To choose Must is to say yes to hard work and constant effort, to say yes to a journey without a road map or guarantees, and in so doing, to say yes to what Joseph Campbell called “the experience of being alive, so that our life experiences on the purely physical plane will have resonance within our innermost being and reality, so that we actually feel the rapture of being alive.” Choosing Must is the greatest thing we can do with our lives. (excerpted from www.BrainPickings.org)

LAST CHANCE! SUBMIT YOUR ENTRY TODAY!

DON’T BE A SNAIL!

Please forward this news-blog to your creative artist colleagues!

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS?

No trees or natural habitats were harmed in the creation of this news-blog!

When we choose Should, we’re choosing to live our life for someone or something other than ourselves. The journey to Should can be smooth, the rewards can seem clear, and the options are often plentiful.

June1620150

Your Next-to-Last Chance for the Moondance in 2015

CALL-FOR-ENTRIES EXTENDED FINAL DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: JUNE 30^TH

For your best chance, send in your entry RIGHT NOW!

FILMS, SCRIPTS & FILM SCORES may be submitted to Moondance by the director, producers,cinematographer, DP, film score composer, writer, editor or lead actor(s), with permission from the producer/director, as needed!

Our submission categories:

Feature, short, documentary, & animation films, music videos, screenplays, stageplays, radio plays, short stories, treatments, kids scripts & films, TV pilots, and more!

Entry form & info: www.moondancefilmfestival.com

Moondance was recently listed by MovieMaker magazine as one of the top 50 film festival competitions worth the entry fee!

Moondance now also accepts scripts for judging in these languages: FRENCH, SPANISH, GERMAN, DUTCH & AFRICAANS.

Our foreign-language readers are published writers & an award-winning screenwriter!

The Moondance International Film Festival, featuring its distinct cinematic visions and bold film selections, has distinguished itself around the world as much more than an annual film festival! The Moondance is a unique community, a supportive, productive, and creative year-round collaboration between independent filmmakers and movie audiences, between writers, composers and the world of top-quality filmed entertainment.

Withoutabox for Moondance International Film Festival is now fully active for this season’s call for entries: www.withoutabox.com/login/1240

Moondance International Film Festival dates:

September 7^th & 8th,, 2015

Boulder, Colorado USA

Check out the website for more info:

NEWS-BLOG: www.moondancefilmfestival.com/blog

The Moondance International Film Festival is always independent, uncensored, totally unfettered, often irreverent, sometimes controversial, always entertaining, and definitely not beholden to any special interests! We select films, written works and music with these criteria: a unique story, well-told.

Moondancers are part of an amazing worldwide entertainment community; a unique collaboration of multi-talented writers, filmmakers, and film score composers. The Moondance mission is to entertain, inform, inspire, encourage and educate. We honor those artists who, through their creative work, actively increase awareness, provide multiple viewpoints, address complex social issues, and strengthen ties between international audiences. At Moondance, you can come together with other writers, directors and producers to create new opportunities, develop tools for success and forge new alliances within the international film and entertainment industry.

In our continuing efforts to promote top-quality original filmmaking, writing and music composition by talented artists from around the world, the Moondance International Film Festival is very pleased to announce that our festival competitions have brought in great submissions, in all categories, from: Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Grand Cayman, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Curaçao, Cyprus, Denmark, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Iceland, India, Iran, Iraq, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Korea, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mexico, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Peru, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tasmania, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Republic, the UK & US, Venezuela, and more!

WHY THE “TOMORROWLAND” LEAD CHANGED FROM MALE TO FEMALE:

Britt Robertson, “Tomorrowland”, Disney

“Tomorrowland” character Casey was originally written for a male actor, but a switch to a female lead was better for the script, according to co-writer Damon Lindelof. “There is a completely false perception of, ‘Well, our main character is interested in space travel, so it’s gotta be a boy,’ but the first time I said, ‘Well, what if it was a young girl’… It just felt like it was exactly right for us,” Lindelof said. “It’ll be nice in 10 or 15 years for this not to be a thing anymore,” he added. Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, working to create positive images of girls and women in media & entertainment: www.seejane.org

A MOONDANCER WRITES US:

“I love that you have a music portion as part of your festival. The composers and others who create original music for film get too little attention at festivals. I’m really proud of both the score and the original music in my film.” ~ Mikki Del Monico, award-winning filmmaker, screenwriter, Venice Beach, CA, www.mikidel.com

SOME THINGS TO CONSIDER:

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel have read only one page.” ~St. Augustine

Photo: Dominique Browning
“When we say, ‘This is the best I can do for now…’, there is nobility in the effort, courage in the the doggedness. It is a process of trying and perhaps failing. Of beginning again. And so it is with the search for meaning – like writing, its rewards spring not from the finished product but from the integrity of the process, from the act of holding up one’s own end…” ~ Dani Shapiro

The Moondance winners’ star award
The Moondance Star Award
“I am not what happened to me; I am what I choose to become!” ~ Carl Jung

Hopi Second Mesa, www.imgsoup.com
“Silence can be fertilizing, it can bathe the imagination, it can, as in great open spaces – be the nimbus of a way of life, a condition of vision.” ~ Adrienne Rich

SUBMIT YOUR ENTRY TODAY! DON’T BE A SNAIL!

Please forward this news-blog to your creative artist colleagues!

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS?