The Sundance Institute is stirring up anticipation by exploring new potential host cities for its annual Sundance Film Festival starting in 2027, breaking away from its usual venue in the picturesque city of Park City, Utah. While the 2025 and 2026 festivals will still be held in Park City, the Institute is considering options beyond its current contract, sparking curiosity about where the iconic event might land next.
Director of the Sundance Film Festival and Public Programming, Eugene Hernandez, expressed the significance of this exploration at a critical juncture for the festival and the global film community. The decision to consider new host cities aims to ensure sustainability and enhance the Festival experience in the years to come. The festival has been a hallmark event for Utah, a state not commonly associated with Hollywood glamour, except perhaps during the festival when celebrities and film enthusiasts flock to Park City to catch a glimpse of stars and view films with future Oscar potential.
In response to the Institute’s exploration, Utah Governor Spencer Cox and Park City Mayor Nann Worel have expressed their commitment to retaining the festival in the Beehive State. The partnership between Sundance and the local community is valued, with a collective desire to see the Festival thrive for another four decades. Despite the excitement surrounding the potential move, the specifics of what the Institute seeks in a new host city remain unclear.
The selection process outlined by Sundance involves various stages, including a committee gathering information and engaging with interested cities. Submissions and proposals from potential host cities will be accepted starting in May, with final selections expected to be announced in late 2024 or early 2025. Notably, the final decision regarding a new host city rests with a committee that includes prominent figures such as Amy Redford, daughter of Sundance founder Robert Redford.
As the process unfolds, a Sundance spokesperson emphasizes that the exploration of new host cities does not definitively indicate a move from Park City. The longstanding relationship with Utah remains significant, and the Institute encourages the state to actively participate in the selection process. Maintaining transparency and involving key stakeholders are essential aspects of this strategic decision-making process.
In conclusion, the Sundance Film Festival’s potential move to a new host city in 2027 marks a pivotal moment in its history, prompting speculation and excitement among film enthusiasts and industry professionals. With the selection process underway, the Institute’s decision will shape the future of the Festival, ensuring its continued success and relevance in the years ahead.