It’s still called the Westport Youth Film Festival. But the 9th edition this spring will take place at the Bijou Theatre in downtown Bridgeport.
The event started out in Westport, at Toquet Hall and Town Hall. Last year it was held at Fairfield’s Community Theatre.
Sounds like a good move.
The Bijou — in downtown Bridgeport — is a beautiful, historic theater in an up-and-coming neighborhood. Shifting the festival to a bigger, hipper location can only help the city, the festival, and everyone associated with it.
The festival showcases the work of local youngsters — and those from as far as Sweden, Israel and India. It also includes thought-provoking panels, speakers and workshops.
Each year’s long planning process brings together teenagers from throughout Fairfield County. The involvement of Bridge Academy — a Bridgeport charter school — is particularly important, and beneficial.
But keeping the name “Westport Youth Film Festival” is nice. Our town no longer has a theater. At least we can put on a show.
(For more information search “Westport Youth Film Festival” on Facebook, call 203-222-7070, or email evan@westportartscenter.org)
