Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival world tour is on the road with stops in more than 600 communities and 40 countries across the globe, including the qathet region on Friday, February 9 and Saturday, February 10, at Max Cameron Theatre in Brooks Secondary School.
According to a media release: "In 1976 a tight-knit group of climbers and outdoor enthusiasts conceived The Banff Festival of Mountaineering Films and over 30 years ago, began an outreach program to bring the festival to other communities."
The films take audiences to remote mountain vistas (and this year to a volcano in the documentary Fuego), and explore topical environmental issues, while bringing audiences up close and personal with those who venture into the mountains.
"The festival is an opportunity for the community to gather and celebrate something we all care about, nature and outdoor activity," said Ryan Barfoot, qathet School District (qSD) sustainability coordinator and program coordinator for outdoor and ecological learning. "The festival serves as a social enterprise, actively endorsing and uplifting local organizations, and all proceeds generated from the event are earmarked for providing outdoor and ecological experiences for young individuals."
Student organizers of the film festival are from Coast Mountain Academy, which is a Brooks Secondary School outdoor/leadership program for students in grade 12.
The program is designed to create rich and often transformative educational and life experiences and allows students to explore their own passions in the context of serving the community, according to qSD. Barfoot said plans are also in the works to establish a fund dedicated to ecological restoration projects within the community.
"We have a wonderful lineup of exhibitors, including many not-for-profit organizations, who are excited to share the great work they are doing in service to us all," said Barfoot. "There will also be a cash bar and silent auction as well as great exhibitors for the local outdoor community."
To see the lineup of films, go to banffcentre.ca/banffmountainfestival/tour/23-24-films.
Tickets for the Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival world tour are available at TAWS, 32 Lakes, the Peak and Brooks Secondary School (cash only).
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