Heartland Film’s New Fundraising Event to Feature Live Music and Much More
Writer / Natalie Platt
Photography Provided
If you’re a fan of The Beatles and supporting local arts organizations, say hello to Cinemania!
Heartland Film’s new signature fundraiser, Cinemania, sponsored by F.A. Wilhelm Construction Co., is debuting on Friday, April 19, at the Crane Bay Event Center. With its inaugural theme, “A Tribute to The Beatles in Film,” this is not your average sit-down fundraiser, but rather an extravagant evening featuring live music from tribute band BritBeat, psychedelic photo experiences, food and drinks.
The local nonprofit arts organization Heartland Film is well-equipped to put on world-class events. Last year their two film festivals, the Academy Award-qualifying Indy Shorts and the Heartland International Film Festival, both made the 2023 Top 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World list by MovieMaker Magazine.
Now’s your chance to be a part of one of the coolest parties of the year while supporting the future of Heartland Film’s community events, education programs and independent film festivals. You might even see some famous faces, including the event’s Honorary Chair, Angelo Pizzo, award-winning screenwriter and producer of beloved inspirational sports dramas “Rudy” and “Hoosiers.”
This red-carpet event invites you to step into a whimsical world through immersive experiences and fab fashion. Psychedelic chic is the official dress code of Cinemania. Embrace vibrant colors, striking silhouettes, bold patterns and textured fabrics. Think cocktail attire with a ’60s and ’70s twist. The more fun, the better!
The Cinemania photo shoot was inspired by the eccentric and eclectic fashion of The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper era. Market Vintage assisted Heartland Film in curating the models’ looks, and they can be your personal Cinemania stylist too. Just stop in and Siera, the owner, will help you pick an authentic outfit and funky accessories.
Flashy jackets, flowing dresses, patterned shirts, bell-bottom pants, retro jumpsuits and vintage scarves are some trending items you can expect to see on the red carpet. White boots are especially popular now, and are the perfect accent to a ’60s go-go-style dress. There will be many unique photo opportunities, so don’t forget fun accessories like colored sunglasses, feather boas, platform shoes, flower crowns and satin scarves to make your pictures pop.
Be sure to wear something you can dance in. Chicago-based tribute band BritBeat will be headlining the event. They’ll take guests through The Beatles eras through elaborate costume changes, including the Ed Sullivan Show, the Sgt. Pepper era and Abbey Road.
Like the Heartland Film website says, “You can’t buy love, but you can buy a ticket to a good time.” Cinemania has several different ticket options available for guests:
Premiere Ticket ($200): Includes a night of drinks, food, nonstop entertainment and interactive experiences.
VIP Ticket ($250): Includes everything the Premiere Ticket offers plus early entrance to the event, exclusive access to the Jimmy Stewart Lounge and specialty drinks.
Tickets can be purchased at heartlandfilm.org/cinemania, and you can get all the Cinemania event updates by following Heartland Film on social media.
