International Film Festival Summit, 2nd Street Jazz, Jingle Mingle Holiday Party, Monaco International Film Festival, are highlights in December's Global Media and Entertainment Industry

The annual Bahamas International Film Festival, held on Nassau & Paradise Island, runs through December 4 this year. BIFF is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing the local island community and international visitors with a diverse presentation of films from around the world that might not otherwise be seen there. At the festival, BIFF features educational programs and forums for exploring the future of cinema. Panels and master classes will include: acting; directing; discussion on producing, fundraising and distribution, covering emerging trends and financing options. During the Festival, there will be a Rising Star Tribute to Zoe Kravitz (daughter of Lenny Kravitz). The opening night reception features live music by emerging Bahamian artists, including 4ever1 Band, and the closing night reception will promote a Bollywood theme requesting attendees to wear Indian style attire, and will feature live music and entertainment by Bollywood dancers.

Matsumoto's 2nd Street Jazz in the Little Tokyo district of  L.A.

Galileo Studio and the Azusa Pacific University Department of Theater, Film, and Television are hosting a conference on the art, craft and business of the short film, taking place in Azusa, from December 2-3. Titled "Much More than a Little Feature: The Splendor of the Short Film", day one will be presented as a short film movie night, while day two will be presented as a short film conference. Collaborating organizations for the event include the Angelus Student Film Festival, the Los Angeles Film Studies Center, and Act One: Training for Hollywood. A partial list of speakers include: Luke Matheny, Writer/Director, 2011 Academy Award® Winner for Best Short Film, Live Action “God of Love”; Randy Haberkamp, Director of Special Projects at the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences; Bobette Buster, Story Consultant for Pixar, 20th Century Fox, Disney Animation, and Sony Animation and others.

Set in the noted entertainment capital of Las Vegas, with only a three and a half hour drive from Hollywood, the Nevada Film Festival hosts several world premieres, galas and parties during its run through December 3. This year's festival line-up includes both award-winning and world premiere feature films, documentaries, short films, foreign films, animations, music videos, experimental films, a screenplay competition, and an actor's showcase. Films of many genres will be screened including drama, comedy, action, horror, family and more. The festival also features panel discussions with the filmmakers where audiences have the opportunity to interact. Panel discussions include a range of topics and disciplines such as writing, directing, and producing. Priority access is available for all films, panels, Opening Night Party, Filmmaker Reception, Festival Awards Ceremony, and VIP reserved seating.

Sandra Lord who conducts the long-running Hollywood Networking Breakfast (usually held on the last Thursday of every month) conducts another seminar for this month in West Los Angeles on December 3 — "Taking Charge of Your Career or Business Direction in 2012". Areas for investigation focus on strategies for guidance and a fresh perspective for the next step of your career planning, resolving common issues of having representation but with career advancement and aspirations still lagging, strategies for those who lack connections or don’t know how to effectively use the ones they have, and more. Although admission is free, reservations are required through an RSVP to the organization's email address and by providing the requested details in the email note.

As an annual event, the International Film Festival Summit Conference in downtown Austin generally attracts over 300 music and film festival executive directors that are the decision-makers in the music and film festival industry. Examples of attendees include SXSW, Toronto International Film Festival, Sundance Film Festival, Summerfest, Telluride Film Festival, Moviemaker Magazine, IFC, Bonnaroo, AFI Fest, Atlanta Film Festival, Starz Denver Film Festival, Savannah Music Festival, Palm Springs International Film Festival, River Run International Film Festival, San Francisco International Film Festival, Tribeca Film Festival, Seattle International Film Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and other institutions that are in attendance for the festival, this year running from December 4-6. For 2011, award-winning actor, Matthew Modine, will provide an actor's point of view on film festivals and what attracts above-the-line players to film festivals.

Within the Little Tokyo district of downtown Los Angeles, eclectic Matsumoto's 2nd Street Jazz weekly event showcase presents Jazz, Blues, Hip Hop, Rock n' Roll, Soul and R & B artists, as well as open mic opportunities and DJ turntable battles. The doors usually open at 7:30 pm nightly and live entertainment starts at 9 or 10 pm. In addition to its original purpose as a jazz club for which it was begun six or seven years ago by one time trumpet player and entrepreneur Kohei Matsumoto, 2nd Street Jazz explores music which ranges from rock to electronic to hip-hop and of course, jazz. Monday nights is a NYC styled jazz jam with any musicians with instruments invited up to the stage to play and singers to sing. Hip Hop and MC beat battles happen on Thursdays. The club features a full bar and late night food from their kitchen.

Hollywood Reel Independent Film Festival, running December 6-11 in Hollywood is committed to assisting the promotion and distribution of films made outside the major studio system. The Hollywood Reel Independent Film Festival celebrates independent and international filmmaking and is a sister project to the long running Independent Filmmakers Showcase series of monthly events designed to bring awareness to new and independent filmmakers of merit. The Hollywood Reel Independent Film festival will screen its 35mm film winners with special screenings at the New Beverly Cinema, owned by landlord Quentin Tarantino and home to his Grindhouse Film Festival. Films screenings include Q & A with directors and are hosted by comedian Don Takano.

Join Central Florida's media and entertainment associations for Holiday "Mingling", networking and fun at the Annual Jingle Mingle Holiday Party in Winter Park this December 8. There will be entertainment, food, cash bar, silent auction and much more. The event is hosted by Women in Film & Television-Florida, and co-hosted by Digital Media Alliance Florida (DMAF), the Florida Motion Picture and Television Association (FMPTA) and Film Florida. Following on just several days later, Film Florida Legislative, Marketing and Board Meetings holds the quarterly business meeting of state's trade associations for film, TV, digital media and commercial production, December 12 and 13 in Cocoa Beach. Its purpose is to offer to businesses and individuals the benefits of a statewide trade association to promote the creation of jobs in the film and entertainment production industries and to promote economic development and tourism in the state.

The Angel Film Awards, also known as the Monaco International Film Festival, is a celebration of peace, love, harmony, positive energy and non-violence in film and this year will add to the festival program non-violent shorts and features, when it runs December 8-11 from the seaside resort area at Monte Carlo — part of the tiny, prosperous principality of Monaco, famous in part for its posh, high-dollar casino and the annual Formula One Grand Prix. Special screenings of 2D and CGI Animation from across the globe are added to the program this year. Since its creation in 2003, the Festival has received wide coverage from global media and is known for its glamour, prestige, and networking industry party events. Venues include Hotel Hermitage, Salle Belle Époque, Monte-Carlo Bay Resort, Salle Empire at Hotel de Paris and the Pacific Lounge. Red carpet screenings will take place at the new Art Novo Theatre and Press Lounge in the Novotel, Monte Carlo. Built on the site of the old Radio Monte Carlo building, the Novotel provides state of the art projection facilities to view the festival program.

Four journalism professionals based in Colorado — Steve Outing, Vanessa Martinez, Sandra Fish, Mike Lewis — will form a panel that will discuss hyperlocal journalism and its various forms: free vs. paid content, innovative tools and online applications, and the roles of social media in journalism, on December 13 in Boulder. Whether your interest lies in journalism, blogging, social media, or other digital content creation, this discussion will attempt to makes its case through examples, case studies, ideas, and anecdotes on the state of journalism and its ever-evolving role in people's daily lives. Admission to the event is free but registration is required to attend.

The Second Annual San Diego Christian Film Festival, happening December 27-30, showcases creative, high-caliber films, supports emerging filmmakers, and inspires audiences through the power of visual storytelling. The city-wide event in San Diego will also include  performing artists, workshops and networking opportunities that will make up its program.

The above events are only a sample of what is fully listed. Complete details are on the "Media, Entertainment and Performing Arts Industry News and Events" page which now has a language translation button to convert page contents into most widely used languages. In a look ahead into January event dates, there is the Palm Springs International Film Festival, Palm Springs, the Victoria Independent Film Festival, in Sebastopol, Games Summit at CES, in Las Vegas, the very seminal Graphation film festival, combining the worlds of comic books, graphic novels and film with a unique perspective on adaptation, in Los Angeles, the Sundance Film Festival, in Park City, the SlamDance Film Festival in Los Angeles, the NATPE 2012 Market and Conference, in Miami. These and more are slated for the month ahead. Seasons greetings to all and all the best for the holiday period from The Actor's Checklist!

AFM/AFI, Leeds Film Festival, Billboard's FutureSound Conference, Alpha Night on Broadway, are highlights in November's Global Media and Entertainment Industry

American Film Market is headquartered in Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel. Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas is the site for the 12th Annual Latin Grammy Awards.

AFM is the anticipated, annual film event that's not quite festival, not quite conference, but mostly business opportunity — the business of independent motion picture production and distribution — set oceanside against Santa Monica beach. Generally, 8,000 industry leaders converge in Santa Monica for eight days of deal-making, screenings, seminars, networking and parties, right up till November 9. Participants come from over 70 countries and include acquisition and development executives, agents, attorneys, directors, distributors, festival directors, financiers, film commissioners, producers, writers, the world's press, and all those who provide services to the motion picture industry. Separate from the conference schedule, the AFM Industry Conversations are interactive and informative discussions led by Hollywood thought leaders, decision makers, trendsetters and experts, and are free to anyone with an AFM Badge.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences recognizes AFI FEST as a qualifying festival for the Short Films category of the annual Academy Awards. And AFI FEST holds the FIAPF accreditation (FIAPF.org), assuring a high standard of quality and reliability for the international film community. The festival opens with the Clint Eastwood directed, 'J. Edgar', with Leonardo DiCaprio, Armie Hammer, Naomi Watts, Josh Lucas and Judi Dench. Individual tickets became available to the general public from October 27. Tickets will be released the day before each screening at AFI.com and the day of each screening at the AT&T Box Office at Hollywood & Highland Center. The American Film Market (AFM) in Santa Monica, is the market partner of AFI FEST.

Leeds International Film Festival will be held in West Yorkshire through November 20. It primarily supports the work of fresh talent in fiction and documentary filmmaking (both features and shorts), and importantly, work from existing talent that has not received some exposure yet in the UK. Every section of Leeds is structured as a film festival in itself. Cherry Kino is the forum for "wondermental" cinema at the festival. Cinema Versa is the home of documentaries inspired by the underground festival aesthetic, running two major themes: Music on Film and Underground Voices, incorporating live special events and collaborations. Fanomenon is the genre section of the film festival offering a mix of fantasy cinema experiences, light and dark. To celebrate its fifth birthday, this year's Thought Bubble festival programme will be extended over seven days taking place at venues across the city. Thought Bubble 2011 will include free workshops for all ages, a three day academic conference, talks and masterclasses led by industry professionals, a giant free book crossing and giveaway, and a programme of film and documentary screenings.

Canadian-born composer Trevor Morris has earned multiple Emmy and Gemini Nominations and Awards for his work on Showtime's The Tudors, The Borgias, and Starz Entertainment's The Pillars of the Earth. For a November 8 evening event in Los Angeles, he and the Grammy Museum's Executive Director, Bob Santelli, discuss his career and the process of writing scores for films and television. Along with the discussion, Morris will take questions from the audience, instruct a live composing demonstration, and audience members will be among the first to see clips from upcoming 3D action adventure feature, Immortals, which he has contributed to.

Every November, the Lone Star Film Society presents the Lone Star International Film Festival bringing top selections in cinema to the City of Fort Worth. Along with celebrating emerging visions, the festival also pays homage to the masters of the medium throughout five days of screenings, panels, and parties. The focus of the 2011 Lone Star International Film Festival, opening for a five day run starting November 9, will be to examine new models of film distribution and marketing with the objective of contributing to the creation of industry best practices for filmmakers and other professionals working within this transitioning environment. The LSIFF Feature Film Competition Program focuses on new works from emerging talents made with modest budgets. The LSFS rationalizes this as the best way to identify new visions that are strong enough to see through barriers such as limited resources.

The Sixth Annual HPA Awards Show Gala is held to recognize the very best in Post Production, and will be held in Los Angeles on November 10. The Hollywood Post Alliance®, also known as HPA®, is the trade association serving the Southern California-based professional community of businesses and individuals who provide expertise, support, tools and the infrastructure for the creation and finishing of motion pictures, television, commercials, digital media and other dynamic media content. Cocktail attire is suggested for this event, and a champagne and dessert reception immediately follows the show.

The Oaxaca International Independent Film and Video Festival is an official cultural event of the city of Oaxaca de Juarez, happening November 12-19. Quality film submissions of any length are welcome from all genres from anywhere in the world. A strong emphasis of the Oaxaca International Independent Film and Video Festival is to contribute to the economic and creative vitality of the city of Oaxaca and expand the audience for independent film. Opening night after party at Bar Txalaparta, and closing night after party at Bar Desestresse.

Billboard's FutureSound conference will bring together musical artists, entrepreneurs, investors and meaningful rights-holders for focused conversations about next-generation opportunities in music over two days in San Francisco from November 17. These ideas will be presented and discussed on-site to produce a Billboard publication cover story detailing best practices and ideas. During a scheduled Friday panel, Steve Jang, Founder/CEO, SoundTracking, Ryan Sarver, Head of Platform, Twitter, take part in a panel moderated by Joe Marchese, SVP Marketing & Digital, FUSE, on "Twitter and The Socialization of Music". In addition to the conference, Billboard will also be featuring installations of next generation platforms and music products to create a backdrop for the day's discussions.

Established and recognized magazine on the film circuit, Independent Film Quarterly presents its Film & New Media Festival in New York City, November 17-24. The festival provides a platform where filmmakers can showcase their work (features, shorts, new media, animation, music videos and documentaries), increase opportunities for producers and maximize potential for distribution, press and industry recognition. The Festival will exhibit a selection of short- and long-form works that exhibit strong personal visions combined with the high standards of artistic merit and technical achievement consistent with, and reflective of Independent Film Quarterly.

At the Music In Media Industry Professionals Mixer running from November 18-19, attendees can get up close and personal with top industry movers and shakers who will be on hand to connect and meet Hollywood Music In Media (HMMA) artists and members. The Hollywood based event officially known as MIMIpro™, features groovin' music, tasty appetizers and a full bar that will be used to create an ambiance for networking while award winners, industry luminaries and personalities deliver candid and revealing interviews live in the hotel's mid-century styled lounge. All HMMA members, guests, friends and awards attendees are welcome to this complimentary two day experience. Live broadcast is carried via www.stageit.com both nights beginning at 8 pm PST. A post event celebration follows.

Held during the official proclamation of "Animation Week" in Burbank, the CTN animation eXpo which runs three days starting on November 20, is an assemblage of presentations, workshops, screenings, networking, recruiting, to mutually benefit the animation artist, games, education, film and video communities and the individuals in those communities. In one planned conference panel, "The Media is the Message!", panel participants explore the topic of developing content in new media such as web-based, iPad apps, PDA oriented content, streaming content, multi-platform content linked with gaming, apps, feature films and more. Since its inception in 2004 The Creative Talent Network® stands as the organized community for the top creators of both traditional and digital animated films, and hosts of the CTN animation eXpo.

Our Gang Productions joins with Rho Psi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, and the producers of the Broadway play, Stick Fly, for one night, November 20, to divert a portion of the evening's box office into a fundraiser for the Rho Psi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, leading up to a 2012 Historic Black college and university tour and College Boot Camp that underprivileged urban youth will take part in. The evening begins with a pre-reception at B. Smith's Restaurant on Restaurant Row of Hell's Kitchen, then onto the Broadway play, Stick Fly, followed by a Q&A panel discussion moderated by Dion Michael Ashman of Get Ready for Primetime Radio. Stick Fly is written by Lydia R. Diamond, directed by Kenny Leon, and executive produced by Grammy winner, Alicia Keys, who composed an original score for the production.
The above events are only a sample of what is fully listed. Complete details are on the "Media, Entertainment and Performing Arts Industry News and Events" page at http://www.actorschecklist.com/news.html which now has a language translation button to convert page contents into most widely used languages. In a look ahead into December event dates, there is the anticipated Bahamas International Film Festival in Nassau & Paradise Island, the 2011 International Film Festival Summit in  Las Vegas, Monaco International Film Festival in Monte Carlo, the Metropolitan Film Festival of New York in New York City, and Queer Fruits Film Festival in Lismore, to give a small sample of the upcoming events in the month ahead. Also to alert viewers, a site revamp and redesign of The Actor's Checklist is close at hand, with new interactive features, tools and resources to aid members, so please stay tuned.

Ghent Film Festival, Americana Music Festival, Toronto After Dark Film Fest, Hollywood Reporter/ Billboard Conference, are highlights in October's Global Media and Entertainment Industry

It's an event which is held twice annually -- once in Colorado and again in Santa Barbara, California wine country. The Durango Songwriter's Expo gives artists and songwriters the opportunity to network with music supervisors, record labels, music publishers, and have music critiqued in listening sessions, sit in on industry panels and perform musical creations during the evening showcases. At this year's expo in Broomfield, October 6-8, each attendee gets three listening sessions, showcase or open mic opportunities, and full access to workshops and panels. The "Write With The Hitmaker" song contest will run again this year. Sticking with custom, registration is always limited to 200 attedees.

The Chicago International Film Festival, which will be staged October 6-20, is now in its 47th year. The Festival was started in 1964 by filmmaker and graphic artist Michael Kutza to provide an alternative to the commercial Hollywood movies that dominated the city's theaters. The Festival opened in 1965 at the Carnegie Theater, where King Vidor, Bette Davis, and Stanley Kramer were honored for their contributions to American cinema. Since then, the Festival has grown to become an  annual event. The Festival is dedicated to fostering better understanding between cultures and to making a positive contribution to the art form of the moving image.

The FREAK SHOW Horror Film Festival in Orlando is an international horror genre film festival and screenplay competition featuring entries in independent horror from around the world. Filmmakers compete for the "FREAKY Award" in nine different categories. The FREAK SHOW Horror Film Festival is part of SPOOKY EMPIRE'S Ultimate Horror Weekend. A Spooky Empire tradition, the Zombie Walk is the official Friday event that kicks off the weekend long convention, from October 7-9, with make-up artists on hand starting at 10 am to apply paint, make-up, prosthetics, and plenty of fake blood. The Screamin' Ink Tattoo room will again operate this year during the festival. The Annual Costume Contest will be held October 9, with cash prizes awarded. Live bands will perform between 7 pm and 12 midnight every night of the Festival run.

New York City based Black and Latino Filmmaker's Coalition, a career resource for filmmakers and actors, hosts a series of one-day workshops structured to challenge, empower and motivate. There will be two more sessions left in this month: the "Mastering On Camera Performances Workshop" on October 9, and "Making A Living As Actor Workshop" on October 16, which will close out the current workshop cycle. The workshop cycle which will start again is structured to guide individuals to perform complex scenes by demanding exercises in efforts to master five crucial disciplines: Rehearsal, Audition, Live Performance, Recorded Performance and Making a Living. BLFC also operates a: Film Assist Grant Program, an Indepedent Film Theater in Brooklyn, the BLFC Institute which hosts the classrooms and workshops. The website also lists upcoming castings and auditions.

Poetry in Film Festival, or PIFF 2011, is based primarily in Melbourne, but will conduct screenings in other districts of Australia as well. The festival is Australia wide, running October 9 through November 9, accepting entrants from every state and territory in the country, and around the world. Entrants in the festival are given a piece of modern poetry. From there they are free to interpret the poem in the form of a 4-7 min short film as they envision it. The best films will be screened at the PIFF Awards Night, where the awards ceremony will take place, with an after party to follow. The best films will also be shown as a part of the festival circuit in other locations, after the awards ceremony throughout Victoria and Australia.

Sports Video Group (SVG) will hold TranSPORT 2011 in New York on October 11, a sport industry event focused upon the needs of the sports professional whose job duties include transport and distribution of video and audio content via TV, the Internet, and other electronic distribution means. The half-day event that starts past noon will provide an overview of the most recent developments as industry experts and service providers discuss the current and future state of this market segment. The Sports Video Group was formed in 2006 to support the professional community that relies on video, audio, and broadband technologies to produce and distribute sports content. The day ends with a networking cocktail reception.

With its origins as a student festival, and its present focus on film music, the Ghent Film Festival occupies a certain niche among international festivals. Every year the festival organizes film music concerts giving composers of film scores a platform to present their works. Since 2001, the Ghent Film Festival has also organized the World Soundtrack Awards. Each year, the best soundtrack composers are honored and receiving recognition for their work. In addition to the screenings, the Ghent Film Festival also organizes film-related exhibitions. To celebrate the twentieth anniversary of U2's classic album "Achtung Baby", the Ghent Film Festival treats its guests to the European premiere of "From the Sky Down", an in-depth documentary about the Irish super band. The 11th edition of the World Soundtrack Awards & Concert will be held October 22, at which Oscar winners Elliot Goldenthal, Howard Shore and Hans Zimmer will be the distinguished guests for the closing ceremony of the 38th Ghent Film Festival at the Kuipke in Ghent, October 11-22.

Americana is music that honors and is derived from the traditions of American roots music. In 2007, the Grammys added Americana to their Contemporary Folk Award. The Americana Music Festival & Conference goes up October 12-15 in Nashville. In a planned conference session, "Working the Festival Circuit: Making a Living Touring Festivals," a panel will explore the positives and negatives of sharing a weekend with multiple acts and detail the business side of how to set up such a tour. Many other panels are slated. Evening showcases are held at five notable downtown music venues including historic Ryman Auditorium, home of the Americana Honors & Awards, Lower Broad honkytonks, and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

Dedicated to film education and exploration, the Bel-Air Film Festival offers its filmmakers access to a series of film panels, music performances, and networking opportunities with industry professionals when it launches October 12 to run through October 17. As a community centered event, screenings are held throughout the Bel-Air community as well as the greater Los Angeles area. Film screenings include Documentaries, Animation, Short Films, Student Film and Comedy. There will be opening and closing night galas, an education series of film panels, a special red carpet event night recognizing British film hosted by Brits in LA, special red carpet film and comedy night, screenings in private estates, music performances, and a good deal of networking taking place.

The Hamptons International Film Festival was founded to celebrate Independent film -- long, short, fiction and documentary -- and to introduce a varied spectrum of international films and filmmakers to its audiences. The Festival, which this year runs October 13-17 from East Hampton, is committed to exhibiting films that express fresh voices and differing global perspectives, with the hope that these programs enlighten audiences and provide invaluable exposure to the filmmakers. In addition to short films (for which they are an Academy-qualifying festival), documentaries and narratives, the Festival offers special events such as: a Breakthrough Performers program, which showcases up-and-coming acting talent (past participants include Rooney Mara, Emmy Rossum, Emily Blunt, and Blake Lively).

The 31st Annual Hawaii International Film Festival (HIFF) in Honolulu, October 13-20, marks the festival's 30th anniversary with presentations of contemporary Asian cinema, beach screenings, a sixth Student Showcase for filmmakers under 18. HIFF is focused on discovering features, documentaries and shorts from Asia made by Asians, films about the Pacific made by Pacific Islanders, and films made by Hawaiian filmmakers that present Hawaii in a culturally accurate way. Film selection places an emphasis on feature films, documentaries, short films, Hawaiian-themed films and music videos. One of the scheduled roundtables titled, "Search Party", brings together composers, music supervisors and studio execs to discuss what goes into taking an idea into a full-fledged score. HIFF is an official partner with Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) for Oscar Night America, and is the sister festival of Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF) and Shanghai Media and Entertainment Group (SMEG).

The Ninth Annual Giants of Broadcasting Awards Ceremony and Luncheon in New York City on October 14, honors those individuals who have played a pivotal role in creating and advancing the electronic arts. This year's honorees include Brian Williams, Christiane Amanpour, C-SPAN's Brian Lamb, Fred Pierce, BMI's Frances Preston, John Dille -- the architect behind CBS Sunday Morning (Charles Osgood, Rand Morrison, Charles Kuralt and Robert "Shad" Northshield), posthumously Gunsmoke's James Arness, Dawson B. "Tack" Nail. Bill Baker will serve as Master of Ceremonies. The luncheon is the Library of American Broadcasting's largest fundraising event, providing the resources to maintain an extensive broadcasting archive and collection of oral histories. A preceding cocktail reception begins at 11:30 am and the awards ceremony begins at noon.

The two day Sexy International Paris Film Festival, opening October 14, looks to discover, promote and screen the best films from around the world that explore the themes of "Sexy" -- sexuality, sex and the erotic -- from a filmmaker's cultural, personal, life and/or cinematographic perspective. The Paris based festival aims to enlighten, educate, create discussion and debate, as well as allow audience interaction in relation to various projects within SIPFF. Festival goals are to discover, promote and screen the best films from around the world. Though international in scope emphasis will be placed on Francophone content with a competition programme to determine the best Francophone short and international short film of the festival. The Festival has announced it will premiere for the first time in France the Berlinale International Film Festival's German Perspective 2010 Closing night Film, "Bedways" by RP Kahl who will be in attendance.

CMJ Film Festival presents a cross section of major studio premieres alongside independent productions from emerging filmmakers. Held annually in New York City, this year from October 18-22, the festival's goal is to present an audience of 18-34 year old, media and culturally savvy, globally-minded tastemakers with sophisticated film programming and opportunities for direct engagement with filmmakers and film industry. A partial list of some panels planned for the festival include: A&R Philosophy, Alternative Film Marketing and Distribution, Connecting Bands with Fans: Mobile Social Discovery, Producing Killer Videos on a YouTube Budget. CMJ Events produces the CMJ Music Marathon in addition to live events and tours across the USA. Parent company, CMJ Network connects music fans and music industry professionals with new music through interactive media, live events and print, and CMJ.com offers a digital music discovery service, information resources and community to new music fans, professionals and artists.

Toronto After Dark Film Festival is a showcases of new horror, sci-fi, fantasy, action, animation and cult cinema. Last year's festival was attended by 9,000 film fans and over 100 members of press and industry. The initial lineup includes a number of unique genre movies including the Opening Gala Film, Monster Brawl, a horror action comedy about an outrageous sporting event that sees fan favorites dueling it out to see who is the greatest monster of all. Audiences and fans will also be delighted to hear that horror industry stalwart Troma Entertainment's Father's Day, a cult exploitation film about a group of misfits trying to hunt down a twisted serial killer, will hold its World Premiere at the festival which will be running October 20-27 in Toronto.

Every year the Celluloid Screams: Sheffield Horror Film Festival showcases contemporary and classic horror cinema, from new horror features and genre discoveries to short films from the "fearmakers" of the future. Founded in 2009, the festival has premiered such notable films as: Paranormal Activity, Neighbor, I Sell The Dead, Subconscious, Grace and The Revenant (just to name but a few), and has an ongoing commitment to showcase emerging genre talent. Celluloid Screams has negotiated a special festival rate that includes breakfast at their recommended hotel, Jurys Inn Sheffield, during the festival run from October 21-23.

Hollywood Reporter and Billboard join forces to deliver a two-day seminar on the role of music in film and television, taking place in Hollywood, October 24 and 25. Now in its tenth year, this Conference offers attendees an opportunity to learn from, network with, and get the ear of attending music supervisors, composers, directors, music editors, songwriters and producers active in the business. Topic areas slated for exploration include: Songwriters and Musicians Working in Film & TV, Music Supervisors Provide Real Time Critiques, Composers Dissect How a Score Evolves, Writing for Teens, 'Tweens and Tots, Roundtables, Speed Networking, more.There will be a Closing Network Happy Hour on the Pool Terrace, then following will be the Official Closing Night Party at The Highlands Hollywood.

The Annual Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame October 26 New York City ceremony is regarded as an industry event honoring the pioneers, innovators and stars of the electronic arts. The evening's formal dinner ceremonies will be hosted by Piers Morgan of CNN, and Nancy O'Dell of Entertainment Tonight. Event organizer and producer NewBay Media's market brands are directed toward five vertical markets -- Pro Audio, Broadcast and Video, Musical Instruments, AV / Consumer Electronics and K-12 Education. NewBay publishes and produces over 40 publications and show dailies, 50 websites, 30 daily and weekly E-Newsletters, 3 expos and over 50 custom publishing efforts annually.

At an October 27 Media and Entertainment Investing Conference in Miami's Coral Gables district, panels for the day include: Early-Stage Media Investing and how to meet investors, pitch them, and what it really takes to get them to write you a check, and Growing Your Media Entertainment Business: Protecting and Selling Your Intellectual Property. The conference, sponsored by The Launch Pad at the University of Miami, will appeal to Media and Entertainment entrepreneurs raising capital, as well as Media Investors (VCs, Angels & Corporate). Additionally, all companies can attend the Pitching Workshop Breakfast from 8-10 am, as well as the Networking Lunch, and Cocktail Party.

The above events are only a sample of what is fully listed. Complete details are on the "Media, Entertainment and Performing Arts Industry News and Events" page at http://www.actorschecklist.com/news.html which now has a language translation button to convert page contents into most widely used languages. In a look ahead into November event dates, there is the anticipated American Film Market set oceanside in Santa Monica, the 12th Annual Latin Grammy Awards in  Las Vegas, Billboard Touring Conference in New York, the Government Video Expo in Washington, DC, and AFI Fest in Hollywood, to give a small sample of the upcoming events in the month ahead. Also to alert viewers, a site revamp and redesign of The Actor's Checklist is close at hand, with new interactive features, tools and resources to aid members, so please stay tuned.

Malibu Film Festival, Independent Film Week (IFP), NYTVF, POP Montreal, are highlights in September's Global Media and Entertainment Industry

New York's Harlem community hosts a film festival through September 11 that showcases features, documentaries, shorts, youth films and animated works from around the world. Other events include night life, panel discussions, the Brownstone Awards and the Renaissance Awards gala. In addition to showcasing films from around the world, the Festival also features the Harlem Spotlight, which highlights films produced or directed by Harlem residents, films shot in Harlem, or films about Harlem and its history.

A Miami Hitmakers Panel set for September 8, has been structured to help educate the up and coming music community in Miami. Panelists will discuss topics such as their background, the state of the music industry today, advice for aspiring producers, songwriters, artists and executives, and other related areas. They will also participate in a Q&A with the audience near the end. ASCAP's Vice President of Rhythm & Soul Membership, Nicole George, will moderate the panel. Attendance requires an RSVP that will be honored on a first-come, first-served basis. To RSVP, please contact Michael Wells at mwells@ascap.com. This panel is free and open to the public.

The Sydney Underground Film Festival seeks filmmakers that veer from the norm. The festival, held in Marrickville, Sydney and running September 8-10, seeks to support filmmakers who operate outside established film industry infrastructures, by providing a platform for exhibition, exposure and critical discussion. The festival program's selection screens independent, experimental, art-house, provocative and daring films from around the world. There will be a fifth birthday celebration at the Opening NIght film and party with fun films, a special live performance, DJs, complimentary food and beverages including organic wine, organic beer, and freshly baked pizza onsite.

In 1997, Malibu Film Foundation was founded by writer/producer/director, David Katz, to produce the Malibu Film Festival. The Malibu Film Festival is set to make a run this year from September 9-15 in the renowned beachfront community that is its home. With a focus on new filmmakers, Malibu Film Festival screens films in all genres, on any topic, from every country around the world. The mission is to showcase the most talented emerging filmmakers, bringing attention to their work to the film industry. A Tory Burch Fashion Show will be presented during the festival run, and there will be a Closing Night Awards Party.

The Temecula Valley International Film & Music Festival is open to US and International films in five categories: full length features, shorts, documentaries, animation and student films. The music competition component of TVIFF is designed to showcase the music vision and artistry of musicians representing all genres of music - from rock to pop, jazz to R&B, Folk to Hip Hop, Country to Latin, Reggae, etc. The festival starts September 14 with an Opening Night red carpet welcome of 300 filmmakers and music artists participants, followed by nightly filmmaker/musician receptions, capped by a Black Tie Awards Gala to close on September 18. Independent record producer Jason Brawner leads the workshop, "Pitch It, Pitch It Good!" where he conducts one-on-one mentoring sessions, and JDS Actors Studio conducts a workshop that focuses on the Audition process for Actors at every level. The two-day MusicFest, Friday and Saturday, is free to the public.

In a combined effort, ASCAP and GRAMMY U present a September 15 networking mixer in San Antonio geared to college students and featuring food, drinks, and a panel presented by ASCAP titled: "The Importance of Music In Film and Television 101". Students can network with fellow college students, Recording Academy Texas Chapter Board members, and start the school year with GRAMMY U. Panelists include: Jeff Jernigan, ASCAP Associate Director of Film and TV Music, Yocel Alonso, Entertainment Attorney, Janet Vasquez, San Antonio Film Commission, Rick Garcia, ASCAP Film Songwriter, Brian Black, Music Supervisor, Veronica R. Hernandez, NALIP, Carl Thiel, Music Producer/Composer/Film Scorer.

Taking place during the 33rd annual Independent Film Week (formerly IFP Market), IFP’s five-day Filmmaker Conference: The Future of Film is now in its new home in New York City at the Film Society of Lincoln Center’s new facility. New this year, are in-depth master classes on topics ranging from financing the narrative feature to audience building and outreach. Created in 1979, IFP is one the nation's oldest organizations of independent filmmakers, and during this time has supported the production of 7,000 films and provided resources to more than 20,000 filmmakers through programs and guidance that include: Independent Film Week, Independent Filmmaker Labs, Industry Connects, Fiscal Sponsorship, the Independent Film Conference and many others. IFP also publishes Filmmaker magazine.

The New York Television Festival (NYTVF), founded in 2005 as the face of the "independent television" movement, has been striving ever since to provide artists with needed access to decision makers, innovative paths of program development, and opportunities to showcase their work. The NYTVF's Independent Pilot Competition has established a pipeline allowing producers, writers, and directors to showcase their original TV pilots directly to decision-makers of the industry. For the first time, an international group of writers, directors, and producers, selected from a grassroots search, will be given the opportunity to showcase pilot programs directly to network and cable executives in a forum. There will be a cocktail party welcoming the 2011 Official Artists and celebrating the opening of the Independent Pilot Competition on September 20, and on September 21 join the New York City Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment for a party celebrating the City's thriving television production community, both events in the Varick Room at Tribeca Cinema.

Unicomm in association with Variety will host the LA Mobile Entertainment Summit in Hollywood, September 20-21, which is all about connecting the ecosystem among digital assets, original content and mobile platforms to reach consumers in today's multi-screen environment. It will bring forth some of the top minds in mobile technology, interactive media and entertainment to examine how content and rapidly evolving technology is dramatically changing the entertainment marketplace. The two-day conference includes keynotes, one-on-one interviews, panels, technology demonstrations, a networking luncheon and evening cocktail reception as well as table top displays and interactive showcases. It will run concurrent with the 3D Entertainment and 3D Gaming Summits operating from the same space.

POP Montreal International Music Festival, running September 21-25, is an annual not-for-profit curated cultural event championing the international music scene vital to indie oriented communities of musicians and artists, fans, curators, critics, and record labels. The festival includes symposium discussions, artisan and visual art exhibitions, fashion shows, film screenings, and nightly parties. The Festival is designated by these sections: Pop Montreal, ArtPop, FilmPop, KidsPop, PucesPop, Symposium. In a slated "Music Supervision Workshop" Jon Bartlett (Megaphono/Kelp Records), Andrea von Foerster (Firestarter Music), Michael Hill and Russell Ziecker (Lionsgate Entertainment) analyze the process to create new soundtracks to a 30-second film clip.

Across the Canadian divide in Ottawa, the The Canadian Film Institute (CFI) rolls out the Ottawa International Animation Festival from September 21-25. The CFI is focused on promoting and presenting regular public programmes of contemporary, historical, and international cinema in the National Capital region. During the week of the Festival, there are 92 screenings and 46 professional development events at six venues across downtown Ottawa. In addition to the main Festival - the OIAF runs a number of outreach events and activities such as: free NFB workshops for families and teens, the Adobe Toon Apprentice Pass, Animation Celebration (a free screening for elementary classes), Toon Apprentice high school lecture series, and more. Aside from nightly parties, the festival also has the annual picnic located in Strathcona Park, Ottawa's picturesque green spot on the Rideau River.

The Fantastic Film and Arcade Game Fest, happening in Austin, September 22-29, was created to offer exposure to genre films in horror, fantasy, sci-fi, action, which can be overlooked by the traditional festival circuit. The Festival strives to offer acquisition and media and exhibition opportunities for undistributed films as well as to spotlight upcoming genre theatrical releases and repertory genre classics. The Fantastic Arcade will showcase a curated selection of brand new independent games as well as a larger sampling of important independent games from the last couple of years.The festival will also make available special badges for access to: the arcade  open for game play and tournaments, Fantastic Arcade happy hour and tournament finals, Fantastic Arcade VIP Party. Festival venue The Alamo Drafthouse was named the best cinema in America by Entertainment Weekly and features food and drink served to your seat without any disruption of the movie experience.

The mission of the upcoming Coney Island Film Festival is to raise funds for the non-profit arts organization Coney Island USA while presenting an engaging program of films including "made in Coney Island" productions. The September 23 opening night celebrations pay tribute to Coney Island's renown carnival history with live performances by sideshow freaks, sword swallowers, fire eaters and stars of the New York City burlesque scene. Coney Island's amusement parks and aquarium are scheduled to be open weather permitting. The festival runs through September 25.

Miami's DocMiami International Film Festival will kick off with Opening Night Cocktails and a Screening on Thursday at Romano's Macaroni Grill. The festival officially opens September 23-25. In some of the speaker sessions, Funding and Development of Your Document, will be addressed by former 20th Century Fox Scriptwriter, Alyn Darnay; and Brenda Nieborsky, VP Operations for Openfilm.com is a featured speaker on the topic of On-Line Distribution. Speaker Ece Karayalcin, Filmmaker/ Professor at the Department of Film and Television, School of Entertainment and Design Technologies, takes on issues of Legalities, Footage & Music Rights. Performing artists including Javier Batiz "The Godfather of Mexican Blues" and Tito Puente, Jr. contribute their talents in scheduled concerts for the benefit of the children of Tanzania at DocMiami 2011.

The annual conference for the film, video, and digital media industry known as Cine Gear NY, includes: exhibits, premiere and master class seminars, film series competition and finalist screenings, 3D symposium and technology salon, content conference, new product announcements, demonstrations, VIP awards ceremony, special events and more. The conference which runs in New York City, September 24-25, offers artists and technicians the opportunity to discover the latest technology and techniques, get hands-on training, gain knowledge and skills from industry leaders, obtain the newest equipment, hear breaking industry news and network with peers and industry leaders.

The Annual CULTURE&CULTURES Intercultural International Film Festival (C&CIIFF), staged in Lempaut Tarn and opening September 29 until October 2, is created by the non-profit association "Culture&Cultures" and presents a selection of international films, both documentary and fiction, with a platform committed to intercultural exchange and dialogue. After each screening, the audience will vote for their favorite film and the Director of either the fiction or the documentary film which obtains the highest votes will be the winner of the 1000 Euros prize.

The above events are only a sample of what is fully listed. Complete details are on the "Media, Entertainment and Performing Arts Industry News and Events" page at http://www.actorschecklist.com/news.html which now has a language translation button to convert page contents into most widely used languages. A look ahead into October event dates will help you prepare for:  Billboard & The Hollywood Reporter Film & TV and Music Conference, in Los Angeles, Durango Songwriters Expo, in Boulder, the New Orleans Horror Film Festival, in Theodore, New York City ShowBiz Expo, in New York City, 2011 Content & Communications World, in New York City, to provide just a small sample of upcoming events in advance. Also to alert viewers, a site revamp and redesign of The Actor's Checklist is close at hand, with new interactive features, tools and resources to aid members, so please stay tuned.

Siggraph 2011, Sunset Strip Music Festival, INTEGRATE 2011, are Highlights in August's Global Media and Entertainment Industry

Siggraph 2011 is the annual conference and exhibition on computer graphics and interactive techniques through international collaboration of individuals: artists, scientists, engineers, and producers, all of whom contribute to the evolving computer graphics community. Run this year out of Vancouver, August 7-11, Siggraph 2011 presents a one-day business summit focusing on the industries that come out of the Siggraph community through discussion-based sessions and presentations. Dessert and cocktails is included at a networking reception the evening of August 8 at the West Building, Ballroom. Job Fair Exhibitors will be posting their jobs on the CreativeHeads.net and ACM SIGGRAPH job boards a month prior to the conference.

A meeting of the San Francisco Chapter’s Producers & Engineers Wing assembles members and other visiting guest participants together for an evening, August 10, listening to songs mixed by the evening's guests. Share songs and listening experiences with other area engineers while engaging in discussion about ideas, techniques, perceptions and insights. This will be the first in a series of listening workshops designed to spark growth and creativity by learning from fellow participants how to achieve the best sound reproduction possible. Attendees are asked to bring a song to share with the group. It may be a current work in progress, or just any song to share for feedback.

Sandestin Music Festival this year unveils a cross-section of country and rock music songwriters and performers for two day opening August 12. A listing of some featured performers includes: Jeffrey Steele, Thomas Rhett, Lari White, James Slater, Kree Harrison, Jon Pardi, The Pernikoff Brothers, and Joanna Cotton. A selection of venues will showcase numerous musicians throughout the weekend. Saturday, the weekend's main headline acts will be showcased at the Village Events Plaza in The Village of Baytowne Wharf. Sandestin Music Festival supports the Wounded Warrior Foundation, whose mission is "To foster the most successful, well-adjusted generation of wounded warriors in this nation's history." Entry to the Sandestin Music Festival is free for the public with a printed ticket from the festival website.

More outdoor music can be heard at the Sunset Strip Music Festival. The street festival is located in the 9000 – 8900 block range of Sunset Boulevard (between Doheny Drive and San Vicente Boulevard) in West Hollywood. From August 18-20, venues within the closure will host free shows for ticketed attendees during the day and after the street fest closes. Entrance is first-come, first-served. The street festival will include two outdoor stages on The Sunset Strip between Doheny Drive and San Vicente Boulevard from 1-10 pm as well as performances in the music venues within the closure – Cat Club, Key Club, The Roxy Theatre and Whisky A Go-Go – throughout the day and into the night. The street fest will also include food and merchandise vendors, beer garden, rooftop VIP lounge, and interactive experiences. Last year businesses hosted parties throughout the week as well as comedy showcases, whiskey tastings, live in-store performances, photo exhibits and exclusive deals for SSMF ticket and passholders.

Inffinito Brazilian Film Festival of Miami is a competitive screening festival, with short and feature films competing for the Crystal Lens, the largest festival prize solely dedicated to Brazilian films produced abroad. The Tribute Screenings will be held at the Miami Beach Cinematheque. Additionally, there is the festival MarketPlace that includes debates and panels focusing on distribution, co-production and commercialization, paneled with professionals from the Brazilian and International film industry.

Seattle-based, cause-rock band, The People Now will host an all ages benefit show for MusiCares® August 20 in Seattle. The music line-up will feature the band, Nine50Nine; an incarnation of Seattle alumni, featuring; Ty Willman (formerly of Green Apple Quick Step), Dave Krusen (formerly of Pearl Jam), Alan Hunt, Cameron Brownfield and guests. Also scheduled to perform is the show’s host, The People Now, a Seattle-based, cause-oriented band and organization with a depth of music and message, striving to make a difference in their community, both locally and globally. Ticket sales can be made through Ticketmaster. MusiCares provides resources and attention of the music industry on human service issues of health and welfare to those in need in the music community.

Snoop Dogg will be saluted as a BMI Icon at its 11th Annual Urban Awards ceremony, August 26 in Hollywood.  BMI President and CEO Del Bryant will share hosting duties with Catherine Brewton, Vice President, Writer/Publisher Relations, Atlanta. This invitation-only event will also honor the world’s premier r&b, rap and hip-hop songwriters, producers and publishers of the past year’s top urban music, and include an all-star musical tribute to Snoop Dogg, as well as the presentation of the Urban Songwriter, Song, Producer and Publisher of the Year crystals.

Integrate will join forces with InfoComm to present a broad range of seminars, workshops and special events, focused directly toward the professional sound, light and vision industries. Over 500 brands and exhibitors will be on display when INTEGRATE 2011 launches August 30 through  September 1 in the Moore Park district of Sydney. With a strong focus on education, seminar and conference programs taking place during the show, key areas to be addressed include: Unified Communications, Digital Signage, Staging and Production, Education Technology, Audio Technology, Lighting and more.

The above events are only a sample of what is fully listed. Complete details are on the "Media, Entertainment and Performing Arts Industry News and Events" page at http://www.actorschecklist.com/news.html which now has a language translation button to convert page contents into most widely used languages. A look ahead into September event dates will help you prepare for:  Boston Film Festival, in Boston, Ottawa International Animation Festival, in Ottawa, Clearwater Film & Music Festival, in Clearwater Beach, NY International Film & TV Finance Summit, in New York, ICG's Emerging Cinematographer Awards, in Hollywood, to provide just a small sample of upcoming events in advance. Also to alert viewers, a site revamp and redesign of The Actor's Checklist is close at hand, with new interactive features, tools and resources to aid members, so please stay tuned.

Variety Venture Capital New Media Summit, Casual Connect, Melbourne International Film Fest, FADE IN... are some Highlights in July's Global Media and Entertainment Industry

Jazz pianist Kyoko Oyobe, whose album of original compositions
'Cookin' at Smalls' was recorded live at  Smalls in Greenwich
Village, leads the late night jam session every Tuesday night
in July at The Moldy Fig jazz club in New York City.

Jazz pianist, Kyoko Oyobe, leads the late night jam session in New York City, Lower Eastside's newest bar, cafe and jazz venue, The Moldy Fig, Tuesday nights in July. The establishment presents it's jazz offering with an assortment of casual diversions like chess, shuffleboard, Scrabble, and backgammon, and a small plate menu from the kitchen. Poets will feel welcome in this Lower East Side element. Kyoko Oyobe who writes original compositions, is from Okayama, Japan, and has released her first album, 'Cookin' at Smalls', recorded live at Smalls Jazz Club in Greenwich Village, now available on the web at cdbaby.com/cd/kyokooyobetrio.

Taking place in New York City through July 9 to celebrate its 12th Anniversary, Latin Alternative Music Conference is geared towards the marketing of Spanish-language alternative music. A connected SummerStage event in Central Park on July 6 features performances by Spanish music standouts Jarabe De Palo, Mexican songstress Ely Guerra, Afro-Peruvian electronica folk artist Novalima and Miami’s DJ Mr. Pauer. A July 8 panel (one of several) addresses, "Patrons of the Arts: Who Are Today's Music Investors?"

An upcoming WebTVWorkshop.com series is geared towards producing web series and new media content, in a crash course format, and is coming to New York City. Taught by Emmy-winning professionals and union reps, participants will learn how to create, market, distribute, and monetize a successful web series. The classes cover everything from strategy and pitch to advertising and promotional strategies. WTVW is including the Showbiz Labor Guide, a comprehensive software program for budgets, labor laws, and union contracts, using easy to understand terms. The Showbiz Store is the retail division of Media Services that caters to the specific technology needs of the media and entertainment industry.

It is fairly well known that The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge -- aka Prince William and Kate Middleton — have recently been traveling throughout North America, with stops throughout Canada and California. The couple is also slated to be on hand for the Variety Venture Capital New Media Summit on July 8 in Beverly Hills. Variety’s Summit will explore how the investment community is driving technology innovation that is critical for the growth of the evolving entertainment industry. At the Summit, top financiers, studio leaders and start-up founders will debate how best to keep this momentum going, creating new media services and products that cross growing numbers of platforms and devices.

The Artivist Film Festival and Artivist Awards are produced by The Artivist Collective, Inc., a charitable organization creating this platform for artists to share  inspirational and informative films with the world. As an avenue for filmmakers to screen their unique, socially-conscious films to the general public, Artivist works interchangeably with the artists and their causes. Filmmakers come together through the organization to share resources, collaborate, and network with other artists and entertainment industry professionals. According to the organization this process has also led to funding agreements for future film projects. Screenings from July 8-10 will take place in cities: Austin, Atlanta, Chicago, Sedona, Seattle, Washington D.C. August will have screenings in Hollywood, and September will will move to New York City.

Anyone can join the Florida Chapter and fellow music community members in Miami for a casual networker hosted by Florida Chapter Board Governor, Serona Elton. Slated for every second Tuesday of the month, attendees can enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and 2 for 1 drink specials on beverages until 8:30 pm, courtesy of Eden South Beach. There's always free admission for Recording Academy members and anyone who would like to learn about or join The Recording Academy.

BMI is a sponsor of the Kauai Music Festival, a four-day undertaking in the art of songwriting held on the island of Kauai, beginning July 13. Through the one-on-one meetings, small group sessions, workshops, panel discussions, open mic activities, and other planned events, festival participants will be able to consult and get feedback directly from the songwriting pros staffing the festival. In addition to the annual Songwriter Conference, the KMF organizes and hosts other educational, networking, and showcase events throughout the year such as the KMF Songwriter Search, an annual songwriting contest with the winner getting free attendance to the annual KMF Songwriter Conference.

A July 18 Grammy Awards 101 Musical Achievement Workshop is a presentation of the Recording Academy Pacific Northwest and Los Angeles Chapters set to be held in Honolulu. GRAMMY Awards 101 + MusiCares Outreach will be an information session on: Recently Announced Awards Restructuring, important information about the 54th Annual GRAMMY Awards, important upcoming dates and deadlines, explanation of eligibility for submitted product, how to submit product for GRAMMY consideration, step-by-step narrative of what each submission goes through once it has been submitted into the awards process.

Casual Connect is the place to learn more about an industry that entertains 300 million people each month. So from July 19-21, learn all about iPhone, Social, Android, Flash, Browser MMO and Download Games, at Casual Connect Seattle 2011. Casual Games Association produces the Casual Connect event annually. And it's not just learning workshops. Some slated networking events include: Pre-funk party hosted by Mochi Media, a relaxed, loungy party beer/wine/cocktails/light snacks; Minna Mingle hosted by EA Partners, a drink in the Grand Lobby after the final session in the Taper Auditorium; Official Casual Connect Party hosted by OpenFeint, with bowling, billiards, drinks and appetizers; another Minna Mingle hosted by TransGaming, presented Happy Hour style with beer, wine, cocktails; Official Casual Connect Party hosted by WildTangent, a lounge party with beer, wine, cocktails and appetizers taking place at the Seattle Aquarium.

Summer NAMM 2011 is the music products industry’s mid-year event showcasing the latest gear, sound and lighting technology, influential companies and the newest brands. Join music educators, students, parents, music advocates, recording professionals and houses of worship music leaders at the international music products industries’ mid-year gathering. Happening in Nashville, July 21-23, attend and get connected with other industry members at the NAMM Young Professionals event during Summer NAMM. Join the group at the Wildhorse Saloon on July 21 starting from 6:30 pm. NAMM, the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM), is the not-for-profit association that unifies, leads and strengthens the $17 billion global music products industry.

Since its commencement in 1951, Melbourne International Film Festival has developed into Australia's largest film event. MIFF hosts an assemblage of cinematic productions from over 50 countries for seventeen days (July 21 to August 7) each Winter (Australian winter), embellished with a slate of parties and special events that has been known to create a celebratory mood throughout the city. Separately and to its own merit, the Regent Theatre has been and continues to be home to many world renowned theatre productions including Disney’s The Lion King, We Will Rock You, and Singin’ in the Rain.

A compressed summary of the activity laden Action On Film International Film Festival in Pasadena, July 22-30, helps to highlight the many interesting events that will happen in its given span of time. There will be four days of workshops and seminars, two special non-profit benefit events and a few additional "surprises". Opening Night Mixer and AOF VII Celebration. Nick Mancuso Acting Seminar Part 1 and 2 happens July 24 and 25. A free Sunday Brunch and Filmmaker Symposium is on July 24, and a Private Celebrity 'Dinner With' Special AOF Filmmakers and Writers happens in the evening. Closing night includes a Black Tie Dinner Pre-event Party, Black Tie Dinner and Award Show, There are screenings at Regency Academy Theater Pasadena with-filmmaker interviews on the Red Carpet and special gifts for everyone in attendance. Private 'after' and 'pre-parties' to be announced.

The 2011 New York International Latino Film Festival mission is to showcase the works of emerging Latino filmmaking talent in the U.S. and Latin America, and provide expansive images of the Latino experience, and celebrate the diversity and spirit of the Latino community. Programming from July 25-31 includes the flagship film festival in New York City, new music and art showcases, family and community events, scholarships for aspiring filmmakers, and a nationally recognized short film competition in partnership with HBO. The festival notably has had the endorsement of Mayor Michael Bloomberg's NYC Latin Media and Entertainment Commission since its formation in 2003.

FADE IN… the 15th Annual Hollywood Pitch Festival offers a chance to present your film or TV script, book, short or idea directly to 200 Hollywood agents, managers, producers, studio and productions executives, over three days starting June 29. HPF only has one class — a pitch class taught by a professional working filmmaker, and it is optional to take. But this year they are also providing one-on-one virtual pitch coaching via Skype starting two weeks prior to the festival. After session activities features a cocktail party Friday evening and VIP Contact Book that will be handed out.

The above events are only a sample of what is fully listed. Complete details are on the "Media, Entertainment and Performing Arts Industry News and Events" page at http://www.actorschecklist.com/news.html which now has a language translation button to convert page contents into most widely used languages. A look ahead into August event dates will help you prepare for:  Flying Popcorn! Online Children's Film FestivalNewport, in New Port, UNF Writers Conference, in Jacksonville, Siggraph 2011, in Vancouver, KRATKOFIL International Short Film FestivalBanja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina, in Banja Luka, to provide just a small sample of upcoming events in advance. Also to alert viewers, a site revamp and redesign of The Actor's Checklist is close at hand, with new interactive features, tools and resources to aid members, so please stay tuned.

Bonnaroo Music Festival, 65th Tony Awards, Banff World Television Festival, JazzAscona 2011, are some Highlights in June's Global Media and Entertainment Industry

A Meeting of the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC) will happen during the World Copyright Summit in Brussels, June 7-8. The occasion is an international and cross-industry event addressing the future of the creative community and the entertainment business in the digital economy. Some of the slated agenda addresses: legislation and dissemination of intellectual property and creative content, creation, licensing, usage, collective management, the value of creative works, the future of authors' rights, the role of creators and their collective management organizations.

Sheffield's DocFest is a documentary film industry event hosting an industry session program and marketplace, pitching opportunities, discussion panels and filmmaker masterclasses, as well as an assortment of documentary films from across the globe. In attendance are expected to be members of the British documentary industry, including documentary and factual producers, directors, buyers, commissioners and distributors. Competitions will be organized at Sheffield Doc/Fest, which runs from June 8-12, with most pitches participating. And on a less serious note, Sheffield Doc/Fest is thought to be the only film festival in the world with its own roller disco rink, open for a June 9 party with complimentary vodka supplied by Zorokowich.

Opening June 9, the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival is a four-day, multi-stage campsite extravaganza that pulls in performers from rock and roll, as well as artists in diverse styles such as jazz, Americana, hip-hop, electronica, and any other contemporary music form. In addition to dozens of onstage performances, the festival's 100-acre entertainment village situated in Manchester pulsates continuously with attractions and activities including a classic arcade, on-site cinema, silent disco, comedy club, theater performers, a beer festival, and a music technology village. This year will also see the return of the Bonnaroo Comedy Theatre, as well as the Silent Disco, a wireless dance party where hot dance beat sounds are broadcast directly to your stereo headset. The festival site is actually a 700-acre farm which is about 60 miles southeast of Nashville and northwest of Chattanooga.

Aruba International Film Festival's mission is to connect with, and convey to the international film community, awareness for the island's culture by showcasing regional filmmakers and productions. In 2010 over 45 films from 18 countries were screened and the festival was covered by over 40 international media outlets with numerous special programs, parties and live events. Rapper, actor and business mogul Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson will be attending the Second Annual Aruba International Film Festival in Santa Cruz, June 10-16, for the red carpet premiere of his latest feature film "Things Fall Apart."

Tailored for professionals in the systems integration, audiovisual, and information communications industries, InfoComm 2011 showcases the latest technologies for audio, video, display, projection, lighting and staging, digital signage, conferencing, digital content creation, networking, signal distribution and much more. The Orlando based show which runs from June 11-17 also offers  educational seminars, workshops and labs taught by experts with a focus on technology, trends and best practices in the industry.

The 65th Tony Awards will be held in New York City, June 12, and telecast live for 3-hours over the CBS television network beginning at 8 pm Eastern Time. Neil Patrick Harris will host this year's awards which will be conducted from the Beacon Theater. A short list of presenters/performers includes: Daniel Radcliffe, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Whoopi Goldberg, Chris Rock, Alec Baldwin, Samuel L. Jackson, Kelsey Grammer, Viola Davis, Vanessa Redgrave, James Earl Jones, Harry Connick Jr., Christie Brinkley, to name a few. The American Theatre Wing's Tony Awards are presented by The Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing.

The Banff World Television Festival launches once again, June 12-15, against the usual setting of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta. The Banff Program Competition looks to honor the best programming across all areas of entertainment, including digital media, drama,and documentary. The Festival combines an international program competition, the Banff World Media Awards, with a comprehensive conference agenda, including four streams of intensive, in-depth programming: BANFF TV, Kids & Animation, Non-Fiction and nextMEDIA. And once again, facilitated networking opportunities include — but don't end at — pre-booked one-on-one meetings with Program Executives, Media Buyers, and Ad Agencies.

The 2011 Maui Film Festival launches June 15 for a four day run at the  Wailea.resort area. There is an opening night reception and Twilight Reception at "Capische?" in Hotel Wailea; Other festival highlights include: Private VIP Party at MALA Wailea at the Wailea Beach Marriott Resort and Spa; Saturday Filmmakers Brunch at Longhi's at The Shops at Wailea; Filmmakers Panels and Festival Tributes; Taste of Wailea at the David Leadbetter Golf Academy at the Wailea Gold & Emerald Golf Course; Starry Night MoonDance at Tommy Bahama's Tropical Cafe; Taste of Chocolate at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea; Starry Night MoonDance at Tommy Bahama's Tropical Cafe; Cosmic Closing Night Poolside Party. As always, befitting its location, the festival offers one-on-one or small group private Maui surf lessons and adventures.

On June 16 in New York City, BMI notable Allen Toussaint is among the inductees into the 42nd Annual Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction ceremony. BMI songwriting icons, Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, will receive the Johnny Mercer Award, and Toronto rap artist, Drake, will receive the 2011 Hal David Starlight Award. Also slated for induction this year are Leon Russell, John Bettis, Garth Brooks, Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly.

Now in its 17th year, the Los Angeles Film Festival, from June 16-26, is an offering of Film Independent, a non-profit, membership film organization that champions independent film and supports a community of artists. The Festival is a qualifying festival in all categories for Film Independent Spirit Awards, as well as for the Narrative and Animated Short Film categories of the Academy Awards. The Festival works with Fast Track, a program of Film Independent that is designed to help filmmakers move their current projects — narrative as well as documentary — into production. Fast Track's film financing market connects to financiers, production companies, and other industry professionals. In planned event, "The Art of Translation: A Conversation with Julie Taymor", the award-winning director shares behind the scenes clips while conversing about taking material from different sources and translating them for the stage and the screen.

An evening of fine food, wine and spirits in the Calabasas Commons will be laid out for the 5th Annual Calabasas - Malibu Wine & Food Festival on June 18. This includes a special tasting of wines, beers, spirits, food demonstrations and, above all, food to eat, all while helping raise money for the Children's Tumor Foundation, and local charities. Event organizer Talents Connection (909-218-6002) seeks Interns and volunteers to help out with various aspects of the event. Volunteers can take part in a festive event with networking potential. Festival administration is also hosting a Video Contest for the public to take part in to produce a 30 second video promoting the 2011 Festival. Email Festival admin at: sales@valleywinefestival.com for more criteria on entering a video.

More than 24,000 entries from all over the world are showcased and judged at the Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival, running June 19-25. Reportedly, over 8,000 delegates from 90 countries attend the seven days of workshops, exhibitions, screenings, master classes and high-end seminars given by industry leaders. Working in partnership with The Brand Union, Lambie-Nairn, Getty Images and Clear Channel, the CannesAlso exhibition will be held outside of the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès de Cannes during Festival week. The exhibition will focus on photography and will be exhibited in the form of The Big Book.

Opening June 20 in Silver Spring, Silverdocs encompasses a seven-day international film festival and five-day concurrent conference that promotes documentary film as a leading art form, supports the work of independent filmmakers and fosters an atmosphere for public dialogue and civic engagement around the issues and ideas explored in the films. Celebrating the art and business of documentary storytelling, the Conference connects media professionals with over 35 panels and workshops. The conference's Silver Sessions are small-group meetings with development, programming and acquisition executives, program officers from funding agencies, theatrical, DVD and international broadcast distributors; digital media innovators, marketing and PR consultants, producers' representatives, legal advisers and industry visionaries.

The Creole Sweet Tease burlesque will be performed this year for the first time at JazzAscona, in the jazz club tent, after midnight. There exist different interpretations of burlesque. JazzAscona will present an exclusive show that is currently reaping success in New Orleans in which jazz is, of course, a key element. The show will be accompanied by young soloists of the Creole Synocopators that features vocalist Jayna Morgan, among others. Tenor saxophonist Ezra Brown (eZrabrown.com) is the face of this year's JazzAscona official poster, and will spend most of the summer in Europe touring with Hip Hop AfroBeat band, BLITZ the Ambassador, to many Western European cities going into August. He takes a brief break from the BLITZ tour and joins Roy Bennett, Gordon Edwards and others forming Just Another Band (JAB) in Locarno.JAB is a festival favorite that, in its past performances at JazzAscona, has been among the most appreciated by the audiences there. JazzAsconia Festival runs June 23 through July 3.

The above events are only a sample of what is fully listed. Complete details are on the "Media, Entertainment and Performing Arts Industry News and Events" page at http://www.actorschecklist.com/news.html which now has a language translation button to convert page contents into most widely used languages. A look ahead into July event dates will help you prepare for:  LA Shorts Fest, in Hollywood, How To Publish You e-Book, in Jacksonville, Casual Connect Seattle 2011, in Seattle, 2011 New York International Latino Film Festival, in New York City to provide just a small sample of upcoming events in advance. Also to alert viewers, a site revamp and redesign of The Actor's Checklist is close at hand, with new interactive features, tools and resources to aid members, so please stay tuned.

Los Angeles Showbiz Expo, Cannes Film Festival, Billboard Music Awards, Drama Desk Awards, are some Highlights in May's Global Media and Entertainment Industry

In Brooklyn, the 2011 Summer Series will feature more than 200 new films, all screened outdoors, in front of big audiences in the parks, on boats, and on rooftops. The festival screens comedies, dramas, experimental shorts, animation, videos, short and feature documentaries, political films, and home movies and found footage, as well as many of the  new independent narrative feature films. Live bands at free music events are scheduled during the series which runs until September 30.

The Festival of Animated Film in Stuttgart hosts directors, production companies, distributors and international sales companies to present their animated films in this competitive festival, now in its 18th year. Artistic animation films and the support of budding talents represent the core of the festival. Prize money of more than 50,000 Euros in total will be awarded in the various competitive programs. The combination of the Festival of Animated Film, the Animation Production Day and FMX, the conference on Animation. Effects, Games and Interactive Media, has established the event as an opportunity for financing and developing animation projects. For Festival goers, entry to any events in the Festival Garden is free through May 8.

Black International Cinema Berlin, May 4-8, originated from the Black Cultural Festival, which was produced and directed by Fountainhead(R) Tanz Theatre in 1986 for the first time in Europe. The present-day event in Berlin, presents the contributions of Black people to world culture through film, theater, dance, music, workshops and seminars, and pays homage to legendary tap dancer, Carnell Lyons. The festival focuses on presenting works of an artistic, cultural or political nature coinciding with the general educational, social, artistic and economic interest of people from Africa, and/or the African Diaspora.

This year's Los Angeles Showbiz Expo -- an annual industry event happening on both coasts -- that brings together everyone who works in Film, Video, TV, Theatre, Fashion and Live Events, will be happening this year from May 6-7. To attend the auditions at ShowBiz Expo, please register to attend ShowBiz Expo. If you do not pre-register by the cut-off date and would still like to attend the auditions, you may do so by proceeding to the audition area without a ShowBiz Expo badge although pre-registrations will receive priority.

NARM advances the promotion, marketing, distribution, and sale of music and entertainment by providing its members with a forum for meeting and networking opportunities, information, advocacy and education to support their businesses. At this year's NARM Convention in Los Angeles, May 9-12, a NARM/A2IM Music Business Crash Course will be given on May 9 and May 10. The course features educational presentations and panel discussions focused on the independent sector, and directed to independent music labels, artists, technology companies and students, to remain current in the transforming music economy. The National Association of Recording Merchandisers (NARM) is a not-for-profit trade association, and since 1958 has served the music and entertainment content delivery community.

Streaming Media, New York, is the annual gathering of online video professionals that offers the opportunity to get hands-on time with new products, check out new streaming devices, and network with industry experts, colleagues, and associates. New for 2011 is a fourth track devoted to HTML5. The HTML5 video "conference-within-a-conference" track will run the full two days from May 10-11 of the conference. Topics will include encoding to HTML5, encoding for Apple iOS devices, advertising and HTML5, how-to build an HTML5 player, and HTML5 standards. There will also be the unveiling of a new broadband device called Pavilion.

At Cannes Film Festival, short films are prominently represented at the Competition, such as when the short films Jury awards a Palme d'or, and at the Short Film Corner, a professional area for meeting people, exchanging ideas and promoting films. A number of initiatives aimed at supporting the talent of the future have already been introduced: the Camera d'Or is awarded to the best film presented either in the Official Selection, during Directors' Fortnight or during the Semaine de la Critique. The Cinefondation, which serves to showcase new trends in the film industry, screens films from film schools as part of the Official Selection, as well as organising the Residence and the Atelier. This year, the opening film will be released in cinemas in France on the same day as its screening at Cannes and the opening ceremony will be broadcast in cinemas enabling audiences to experience the Festival launch night live. The Cinema de la Plage, an outdoor cinema, screens a different film each night, and since 2010 even the occasional world preview from its theme-based programme.

The International Film festival and Environment Ciudad de Zaragoza has a focused directive to show, support and promote films made in the world on the environment. EcoZine aims to promote, show and award prizes to audiovisual fiction, animation and/or documentaries with environmental themes produced anywhere in the world, and also to promote actions and audiovisual events related to the Environment. The Festival based in Zaragoza runs from May 13-21.

BMI will honor David Foster as a BMI Icon on May 17 at its 59th Annual Pop Awards in Beverly Hills. The invitation-only event will also honor the songwriters and publishers of the past year's most-performed pop songs in the United States. Foster was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2010. The evening will include an all-star musical tribute to Foster, as well as the presentation of the Pop Songwriter, Song, and Publisher of the Year crystals.

The Jazz Foundation presents its annual "A Great Night in Harlem" gala concert, May 19 in New York, benefiting the Jazz Musicians Emergency Fund. This evening will raise money to assist the elder jazz and blues musicians in crisis across the country, artists who have spent their lives being passionately devoted to their music while creating enjoyment for listening audiences. Presently on the agenda, performances by Macy Gray, Roberta Flack, Dr. John, Lou Reed, Christian McBride, Hot 8 Brass Band are slated, with more to be announced. Post-concert supper, club gala, and the VIP After-Party jam session with musicians are featured activities. The 2011 Gala Honoree is Michael Novogratz.

Artists collective, The Urban Individualists, and their artist affiliates, open a New York show with music themed, and music inspired artworks paying tribute and homage to musician and composer Gerry Eastman and The Williamsburg Music Center he founded in 1981. WMC exists to foster the creation, performance and appreciation of American Classic Music. It is a black-owned and operated non-profit jazz institution offering classes and workshops in jazz performance and history. This exhibit will formally open on May 20 with a reception and will be accompanied with live music provided by Gerry Eastman's band. This is an Urban Individualists Event curated by Helene Ruiz, co-curated by Jakulo Cooper, in collaboration with WMC.

"Gaming: A Dominant Force In Entertainment, What's Next?" is the theme to be addressed at a panel on May 20 that will ponder the entertainment software industry's growth of roughly 1300% since the year 2000, and how Gaming is now beginning to push boundaries in other fields outside of entertainment such as social networking, health, education, and even science. The group of experienced gaming professionals assembling in Boulder will tackle the future role of video games in the entertainment industry. Panelists will discuss their personal history in the industry as well as rising trends and new applications for gaming.

The 2011 Billboard Music Awards will air on ABC live from Las Vegas on May 22, in partnership with the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. The awards will reflect Billboard's chart rankings based on key fan interactions with music, including album, single and digital sales, touring, streaming and social interactions on MySpace, Facebook and other popular online destinations for music. The awards will be based on the reporting period of February 28, 2010 through March 1, 2011. Top artists will be recognized in a variety of genres, including R&B, Rap, Pop, Country, Rock, Latin and Alternative.

The 56th Annual Drama Desk Awards will be held at a gala sit-down dinner in New York, on May 23. The Drama Desk Awards which were established in 1955 and are given annually in a number of categories, recognize excellence in the commercial and not-for-profit sectors of New York theatre. It is the only theatre award for which production on Broadway, off-Broadway, and off-off Broadway compete within the same categories. This year's Awards show adds new features including a live orchestra, performances from nominated musicals, and a one hour primetime special which will air one week later on the Ovation Network. Festivities opens with a Black-Tie VIP Cocktail Reception, VIP After Party Ticket with Premium open bar and dessert stations. Harvey Fierstein is host of this year's awards.

The Amsterdam Film Festival contains a mix of art and expression seeking to reflect the character of the host city. Honoring films from over 90 countries around the world, the 2011 Amsterdam Film Festival will award and recognize feature films, short films, documentaries, student films, animation, music videos and screenplays. The festival accepts submissions of all types and encourages individuality and experimentation. The Festival, running May 31 to June 1, recognizes excellence in filmmaking in the categories with the organization's Van Gogh Awards.

The above events are only a sample of what is fully listed. Complete details are on the "Media, Entertainment and Performing Arts Industry News and Events" page at http://www.actorschecklist.com/news.html which now has a language translation button to convert page contents into most widely used languages. A look ahead into June event dates will help you prepare for:  Cine Gear Expo 2011, in Hollywood, Produced By Conference, in Orlando; The Aruba International Film FestivalSanta Cruz, Aruba, in Santa Cruz, Banff World Television FestivalBanff, Alberta, in Alberta, AFI/Discovery Channel SILVERDOCS Documentary Festiva, in Silver Spring, to provide only a small sample of upcoming events in advance. Also to alert viewers, a site revamp and redesign of The Actor's Checklist is close at hand, with new interactive features, tools and resources to aid members, so please stay tuned.

NAB 2011, Coachella, Tribeca Film Festival, San Francisco International Film Festival, London Sci-Fi & Fatastic Film, are some Highlights in April's Global Media and Entertainment Industry

A one of a kind arts festival is underway at the New School for Social Research in New York City through April 8. The theme of the festival is "Noir", a cinematic style of shadowy expressiveness that had its heyday in the 1930s and 1940s, and how its influence has penetrated areas ranging from fashion design to fine art, graphic art to fiction. An exploration of the genre and its present day adaptations is done through a presentation of iconic films, hard-boiled storytelling, graphic art, and illustration.

Celebrating its 10th Anniversary April 6-9, the 2011 Florida Music Festival & Conference showcases live music, film and visual arts within the cultural community of downtown Orlando, The keynote interview for this year's conference features Melvin Benn of Festival Republic on creating a successful live music event or festival. In an April 9 panel, Aaron Ford, Grooveshark, Alex Ewen, Media/Label, David McKenna, Bonded Records/Film, Jeffrey Hanson, Silent Majority Group, and David Beame, Beame & Mencher, LLP, discuss "The Business of Music." All conference speakers will be available to all performing artists and registered music companies or aspiring music industry students to network with, post conference and throughout the weekend.

Now in its 28th year, the 2011 French Quarter Festival highlights New Orleans’ signature music, food, and culture within the historic neighborhood. French Quarter Festival was first produced in 1984 as a way to bring residents back to the Quarter. Today, 18 stages throughout the festival celebrate local music and represent every genre from traditional and contemporary jazz to R & B, New Orleans funk, brass bands, folk, gospel, latin, zydeco, classical and international. In other festival attractions, New Orleans' restaurants, create the “World’s Largest Jazz Brunch” in Jackson Square, the Old U.S. Mint and Woldenberg Riverfront Park during festival weekend; Satchmo SummerFest hosts ‘Red Bean Alley’ with Satchmo inspired dishes and local cuisine. Only local restaurants are invited to participate in these festivals. French Quarter Festival runs April 7-10.

Palm Beach Women's International Film Festival, April 7-10, premieres as a new women’s film event in Florida, attracting women filmmakers and visitors from around the world. A festival highlight includes the US Premiere of "Finding Kind", a documentary about the “mean girl” phenomenon, which has been covered extensively in national media lately. The film will screen on Sunday, April 10 at Muvico in Cityplace, followed by a panel on school bullying from leading area experts including the School District of Palm Beach County and the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida.

Hollywood based FirstGlance Film Fest accepts all genres and screens feature length, feature documentaries, short narratives, shorts too (under 10 minutes), mini-docs, student shorts, graduate student shorts, music videos, animation and webisode pilots. Filmmakers of both short and feature films taking part in the festival are offered theatrical distribution through the festival's new relationship with a Las Vegas theatre chain and distributor offering PPV and VOD after the theatrical run. During the festival's run of April 8-10, After Parties will allow filmmakers to mix and mingle and hold informal Q & A with fellow filmmakers and audience members.

Over 85 years ago, Thomas Meighan was a famous hollywood silent movie star of the twenties. In 1919, he hit stardom in one of his best known films at the time, "The Miracle Man", but unfortunately due to film deterioration it has disintegrated into small fragments over time. Thomas Meighan dreamed of making New Port Richey the Hollywood of the South. The Thomas Meighan Project will premiere the first film festival in the New Port Richey area, April 9-17, by showcasing film, video and animation shorts as a tribute to Meighan’s vision. Today, Meighan’s most recognizable role is in the film, "Male and Female", directed by one of Hollywood’s legendary directors, Cecile B. Demille. The Thomas Meighan Project in association with the Richey Suncoast Theater will present the return of the "2011 Black Maria Film Festival."

The Delray Beach Film Festival has become the Downtown Boca Film Festival (DBFF) based in Boca Raton, yet remains a non-profit 501 (c-3) organization dedicated to providing the local community and international visitors with a diverse presentation of films from around the world. This year festival screenings are from April 9-17 and include a program of student shorts and Xtreme sports video. In addition to offering films that might not otherwise be released theatrically in the USA, DBFF provides a unique cultural experience with events like Casino Night in Old Hollywood, benefitting Planet Hope, set for opening night, the Reel to Runway fashion show on April 11, as well as educational programs and forums for exploring the future of cinema.

NAB 2011, the annual digital media industry event held in Las Vegas, this year from April 9-14, is typically attended by media, entertainment and communications professionals focused on the next generation of video and audio content across multiple platforms — television, radios and computers to phones, the big screen. In sessions planned for April 12, Gordon H. Smith, President and CEO, National Association of Broadcasters, presents the "State of the Broadcast Industry Address", and Leslie Moonves, President and CEO of CBS, sits down with Gordon Smith to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing broadcasters and the broadcast medium today. The NAB Education Foundation in partnership with the Broadcast Education Association and Pinkslipmixers.com hosts its annual spring Career Day during the NAB Show. Academy Award-Winning film director James Cameron will keynote the NAB Show.

The London Independent Film Festival will be held this year from April 14-25. It is committed to the independent filmmaker by giving special attention to films by first and second time directors, film produced with budgets under £100,000, and quality films that, for whatever reason, are unlikely to receive distribution through other channels.

Coachella, the anticipated annual music festival, April 15-17, set in the California Desert features many genres of music including alternative rock, indie, and electronic music. The event has several stages/tents set-up throughout the (camping) grounds, each playing live music continuously. From April 16–18 of the 2010 festival, Coachella drew a reported over 75,000 spectators each day. The festival also features interesting installation art and sculptures. Most of the pieces are interactive, and provide entertainment and eye candy for attendees walking throughout the Polo grounds. 2011 will introduce a new high security wristband that must always be worn and will be scanned at various checkpoints and upon entry to camping and festival grounds.

The Tribeca Film Festival in New York happens April 20 through May 1. As in past years, the Festival incorporates into its format the ESPN Sports Film Festival. Also in years past, the 2011 Family Festival Street Fair repeats again, this year on April 30 from 10 am to 6 pm. "The Union," Cameron Crowe's new documentary, chronicling the musical collaboration between Elton John and Leon Russell, opens the 2011 Tribeca Film Festival. And in the Tribeca Talks series, "After the Movie" post-screening dialogue with filmmakers, will be mixed with free events like "Industry", that reviews issues that matter to today's filmmakers such as the future of film distribution, stretching a production budget, how visual style affects genre, the challenges of documentary, and more. Established in 2003 by Robert De Niro, Jane Rosenthal and Craig Hatkoff, Tribeca Enterprises currently operates a network of branded entertainment businesses including the Tribeca Film Festival, Tribeca Film Festival International, Tribeca Cinemas and Tribeca Film, a distribution initiative.

The 54th San Francisco International Film Festival opens at the Castro Theatre April 21 for a screening of "Beginners", and then shifts to the after party to enjoy culinary delights from local restaurants, sophisticated cocktails as well as dancing. The Festival’s Midnight Awards on April 23 have been created to honor a dynamic young American actor and actress entering the prime of their careers — the ceremony is crafted as a late night awards ceremony and cocktail reception featuring food and drinks, DJ entertainment, film clips and remarks by special guests. The April 28 Film Society Awards Night is an anticipated black-tie gala event benefitting SFFS Youth Education fund. The evening honors this year’s directing, acting and screenwriting award recipients with peer tributes and career highlights, and features a special tribute to George Gund III. The "Centerpiece" of this year’s Festival is an event that features an edgy new film by an emerging director, followed by a chic lounge party at the CLIFT’s Velvet Room, featuring cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and the latest beats. On closing night, May 5, mix and mingle with a movie-loving crowd at The Factory. Dance to music inspired by the Closing Night film and feast on hors d’oeuvres and cocktails.

At London's ninth International Festival of Science Fiction and Fantastic Film, there is the regular film programming of shorts, features, documentaries and world premieres, then there will be a featured series of talks, such as special-effects masterclasses, and debates on genre literature, film and TV. The festival, running April 23 - May 2, will also expand their ‘Science Fact’ stream with demonstrations, lectures and debate - under the banner SCI-FI-LONDON: LAB. A regular fixture at the Festival, the all-nighters offer three very different programmes of movies that run from around midnight until sunrise: an anime programme taking releases right to the big screen rather than DVD; the Mystery Science Theatre 3000 program; a themed programme of either sci-fi or horror classics. All attendees are given goody bags, ice-cream, a ample supply of caffeine (Red Bull, coffee and tea) throughout the night and breakfast at daybreak.

At ASCAP's "I Create Music" Expo, there will be panels for all three days and live musical events each evening. To kick things off, there will be a pre-EXPO Networking event on Wednesday night, April 27. Lindsey Buckingham will be presented with the ASCAP Golden Note Award. Immediately following the presentation, Buckingham will be interviewed by Sara Bareilles focusing on his career as a songwriter, producer, multi-instrumentalist, member of Fleetwood Mac and a solo artist. Marco Beltrami and Wes Craven, Scream 4, will discuss their collaboration in influencing the modern horror genre experience. And new this year, panelists in the film and TV industry lead a "Film & TV Scoring Feedback" session in which pre-submitted attendees' composition and/or scores are played and analyzed constructively.

The above events are only a sample of what is fully listed. Complete details are on the "Media, Entertainment and Performing Arts Industry News and Events" page at http://www.actorschecklist.com/news.html which now has a language translation button to convert page contents into most widely used languages. A look ahead into April event dates will help you prepare for: the Florida Music Festival and Conference, in Orlando, Tribeca Film Festival, in New York; National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) 2011, in Las Vegas, London Independent Film Festival, in London, the San Francisco International Film Festival, in San Francisco, to list only a few upcoming events in advance. Past videos from the monthly video news summary are archived on the Free Home Video Showcase at http://www.actorschecklist.com/video.