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Hi, so I work for @sidewalkfilm. We're an indie film festival and cinema in Birmingham, AL. We opened our cinema doors in the fall of 2019. Right when we were getting our sea legs in running a full time cinema, COVID-19 forced us to close. 1/
That was March 12. It's now July 30. We have been closed that entire time. We've launched several new programs to try and keep ourselves afloat - online classes, curbside concessions, indie streaming rentals in partnership with distributors. 2/
We found out earlier this month that we would be able to use a local drive-in to host our annual film festival in a safer way. It's at the end of August. 3/
The festival generates the lion's share of our income every year through a combination of sponsorships and ticket sales. And we're a month out with a LOT of tickets to sell. 4/
Through no fault of their own, sponsors whose businesses are suffering have had to drop their sponsorships this year to survive. And we are only able to show movies when it's dark outside as opposed to all day, so we have fewer films to sell tickets to. 5/
(Let me also add: we're running with as small a crew as possible to facilitate this event in a safe way with masks required whenever you're outside your vehicle.) 6/
We need all the help we can get - if you'll be in Birmingham August 24-30 buy yourself a ticket (they start at $15). Or, if you cannot afford to buy a ticket, please RT this thread and just help us get the word out. You can check out our schedule at http://sidewalkfest.com/schedule 7/
Believe me: we are seeking out every form of assistance we can find. But this year's festival being a success is critical no matter how you slice it. The arts have added untold value to my life, and I think they're a vital part of our communities. Please help us survive this.
I'll also add if you won't be in Birmingham on those dates (or at all), you can always support us by making a donation. Every dollar helps. https://sidewalkfest.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3600000FHOT9AAP
