Plans for Opening Night on Front Street balloon

Rich Brauer to Receive Michigan Filmmaker Award

TRAVERSE CITY (July 3, 2009) — Entertainment, ceremony and balloons like you’ve never seen them before will mark the official opening of the fifth annual Traverse City Film Festival on Tuesday, July 28.

The festival takes over the entire 200 block of Front Street, from Park to Cass, with festivities for all ages that run from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Outside the historic State Theatre, visitors will be able to participate in an array of exciting entertainment — and it’s all free.

Festival Founder, President and Oscar-winning filmmaker Michael Moore will present Traverse City-based filmmaker Rich Brauer with the Michigan Filmmaker of the Year Award. The opening ceremony will begin at 6 p.m. on a stage in front of the State Theatre.

A highlight of the evening will be the participation of New York City’s Jason Michael Hackenwerth, who creates art works entirely out of balloons. An unconventional sculptor, Hackenwerth blows, twists and shapes plastic into whimsical forms and creatures.

“I’m filling them,” Hackenwerth says of his balloon creations. “The air inside is slipping out. It’s a great metaphor for our own lives.”

In addition to Hackenwerth’s appearance, Charlie’s Root Fusion and Rojo Loco will provide live music at either end of the block. Other featured entertainment includes face painting, a clown, magician, Tommy Tropic and balloon artists. Food will be available for purchase from downtown eateries including Morsels, U & I Lounge, Scalawags Whitefish & Chips and others.

The film festival runs through Aug. 2. For a complete schedule of films, panels and other special events, and ticket information, click here.

For more information on Jason Hackenwerth, or to see photos, visit www.jasonhackenwerth.com.