MINNEAPOLIS— An event designed to bring more people of color into the film and television industries connects Minnesotans with opportunities to advance their careers.
This is the third year that the Mega Mixer is creating entry points for people of color to get their foot in the door of the film and television industry.
The event was created by Leonard Searcy, an actor, director, producer and CEO of Westbone Productions.
“When I was on so many sets in movies, television and commercials and looked behind the camera, I didn’t see anyone who looked like me or anyone who looked like anyone of color,” he said.
Searcy recalled asking why he didn’t see people of color working as production assistants, screenwriters and grips.
“The answer I got was the same every time, which was, we don’t know where to find them,” he said. “After years and years and years of hearing the same thing, I thought, you know what, let me introduce you.”
Searcy uses the event to connect creatives of color with industry decision makers.
“The people who make these commercials are in the same room who make these movies, who make these TV shows,” he said. “It’s life-changing for a lot of people.”
Oogie Push worked as a production assistant on two documentaries for Twin Cities Public Television and earned two regional Emmy awards. She got her start by attending the first Mega Mixer.
“I’ve always wanted to make movies, be on television and do all that stuff, but I didn’t know how to get into it, so I saw this as an opportunity,” she said. “And I found that just my general life skills and the theater work I’ve done could easily be transferred to being on set.”
Push believes that the Mega Mixer gives people access to their dreams.
“You’re going to find people that you wouldn’t normally have access to. You’re going to get information that is kind of like inside industry knowledge that isn’t widely known,” Push said.
Mega Mixer takes place October 19 and 20 at Cinequest and the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Tickets are still available.
Reg Chapman
