Newark Independent Film Festival

Hello! My name is Kazy Tauginas. I've been deep in the entertainment business for over 15 years. I’ve spent many, many hours on film sets of various sizes. I’ve been honored to share the screen as an actor with legends such as Denzel Washington, Eddie Murphy and Jeff Daniels. Throughout the years, I’ve worked with so many talented people and many times I would find myself thinking “how come this person isn’t doing bigger things”? I realized that success in Hollywood really is all about timing and relationships. That was what really spurred me into developing content. That way I could create my own timing and relationships! I found nothing to be as fulfilling as seeing a story become a screenplay which would then evolve into a film. Being part of the entire process is like being the painter. After knowing there are so many talented people out there, I wanted to give them a chance to let their voices be heard. I started the Newark Independent Film Festival as a way to give back to artists and help them with timing and relationships. 

After our first year, we saw filmmakers coming together and collaborating. That was so exciting for me! Seeing our artists working with each other - a dream come true. I want this festival to be known for hosting incredible artists and showcasing their projects. I also want it to be known for a place to network. Making a film is an incredibly difficult feat. It requires a substantial amount of collaboration. These are the future Spielbergs, Freidkins and Tarantinos. I got my undergraduate degree at the University of Delaware and I owned a 24 hr Diner on Main Street in Newark. In the back of my head, I always felt Newark would be the perfect place for a film festival. The accessibility to all the major cities in the Northeastern corridor - making it the ultimate destination for such an event. I strategically chose to hold the festival during the summer months, when the university is not in session. That way festival attendees can give the many local businesses a needed boost during their slowest time of the year. We’ve also partnered with Chapel Street Players, a local nonprofit with an incredible performing arts venue in the heart of Newark. My hope is that through this partnership we’ll be able to not only grow the festival, but create a substantial and lasting artistic community in Delaware. I want the name “Newark” to be synonymous with the performing arts. By sponsoring this event, you’ll not only be helping mold the next generation of filmmakers, you’ll be helping create a new cultural center in Newark, Delaware.

Thank you so much for your consideration. 

 

• https://newarkindependentfilmfestival.com