Chattanooga native Richie Walls, a partner/producer/manager with Whitener Entertainment Group, will have a seemingly simple message for those who gather for the December Backlot meeting at Heritage House in East Brainerd on Monday.
The monthly meetings are open to anyone interested in or involved in the film industry – actors, producers, crew members, camera operators, makeup artists, lighting technicians and writers.
Walls wants people to know there are lots of ways to work in the TV and movie business. The key is following your passion, finding what you are good at, learning your craft and being ready when the opportunity knocks.
And you can do a lot of that from just about anywhere in the country, especially here in Tennessee.
About The Backlot
The Backlot: A Place for Filmmakers is a mixer designed to connect filmmakers, talent and crew. Typical activities at the monthly gatherings include featured speakers from the motion-picture industry, casting calls and screenings of locally produced films. Gatherings take place at Heritage House Arts & Civic Center, 1428 Jenkins Road. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. with presentations beginning at 7 p.m. on the third Monday of each month (weather and national holidays permitting). A Q&A follows the presentation, and both usually last about 90 minutes. Time for networking is built into the evening. Attendees are encouraged to bring business cards and/or head shots for networking. Admission is free. Dinner is potluck, with those attending asked to bring a simple side, mocktail beverage or snack to share. For more information, call 423-855-9474 or email Chris Holley at cholley@chattanooga.gov. Find our more online at www.chattanooga.gov/youthandfamily/recreation/senior-and-cultural-facilities/heritage-house.