We had the good fortune of connecting with Claire Taylor and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Claire, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
I think there is a misconception that there is an 1, 2, 3 step process to getting a television show up on the screen. One of the things I emphasize to filmmakers who participate in SeriesFest is that this is a long term relationship. Every series or film has it’s own unique story of how it makes it to screen, and same goes for the individual artists. I think that is important to keep in mind when working in the creative arts.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I guess I’d say that something I’m proud of in my career is how much it has and continues to surprise me. My work in the entertainment industry required an adaptable approach to each opportunity as it presents itself. Every play, series, film, or live event that I’ve worked on has presented challenges that are unique to the properties. Especially when it comes to working in festivals, I’d say no event is like the last. 2020 was certainly a year full of challenges I couldn’t have foreseen, but I’d say that because of all of my practice in adaptability, I’m very proud of what I was able to achieve and even a few programs that were elevated in spite of the uncertain times in the industry.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Ok closing my eyes and pretending COVID-19 isn’t in the picture….. Some of my favorite day time activities include Red Rocks, the Wildlife Sanctuary, and walks in City Park. Not to miss eats include Blue Pan Pizza, Chook Charcoal Chicken, and Nuggs Ice Cream. Happy hour/night time spots include The Cruise Room, Middle Man, and of course catching a flick at the Sie FilmCenter.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
SeriesFest was founded on the idea of creating a platform for independent artists to take their stories to the next step. My colleagues have worked tirelessly over the past six years to ensure that independent filmmaking is at the heart of every decision. Shout out to every talented, generous, and open minded individual who I’ve ever worked along side since the beginning. From volunteers, board members, and programmers to my team who takes excitable (and sometimes panicking) calls from me at the earliest hours of the morning, thank you. You deserve more than a shout out! The second (but not less) shout out would go to my fellow festival producers and programmers at Denver Film, Austin Film, IFP, ATX, SXSW, and many more who have pushed through this incredibly tough year for our industry. I have no doubt we will bounce back, and continue to be allies to each other.
Website: www.seriesfest.com
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/fclairetaylor
Image Credits
Susie Wolcott Lisa Siciliano