The Sundance Film Festival is seeking a new home beyond the snowy mountains. Announcing on Wednesday, the renowned celebration of independent cinema is inviting pitches from cities across the United States to become its permanent host starting in 2027.
Since 1981, the festival has been nestled in the luxury of Park City, Utah (except for two virtual years during the pandemic), originating as the Utah/U.S. Film Festival in Salt Lake City in 1978. Park City will continue to host Sundance for two more years before its contract is up for renewal. Utah remains in consideration as a potential future host.
“We are at a pivotal moment for our festival and global film community,” said Eugene Hernandez, festival director, expressing a commitment to sustaining the festival’s essence while enhancing accessibility and inclusion.
Infrastructure is a key factor, with a record 17,000 film submissions received last year. Easier access to airports and modern theaters is sought to accommodate programming and attendees. Starting April 17, a special committee will accept requests for information from interested hosts until May 1. Proposals will be evaluated, with founders Robert Redford and Amy Redford involved in the selection process. The final host city will be announced by late 2024 or early 2025.
“We eagerly await proposals and collaboration to support the independent film community,” added Ebs Burnough, Sundance Institute Board Chair.
