LEE, Mass. — Diane Pearlman, Executive Director of Berkshire Film and Media Collaborative, made the official presentation of a $5,000 Community Film Fund matching grant to Liv Cummins, Executive Director of Columbia Arts Team (CAT), toward their production of the musical comedy film "Band Boy," written and directed by Lee resident Sandy McKnight, and produced entirely in Berkshire County.

 

The feature-length film was shot in Sheffield, with local actors Marc A. Contento, Andrew Joffe, Mary Adams, Michael Siktberg, Sherman Howard, Seth Keyes, Tony Carrano, Liv Cummins, and a special appearance by Wanda Houston. Beth Carlson and Kip Beacco of Stockbridge-based Silo Media did the cinematography and editing.

 

According to a press release, Berkshire Film and Media Collaborative creates educational, workforce and production opportunities in the film and media industry as an economic initiative for the Western Massachusetts region. Columbia Arts Team showcases local writers and performers in original, new work. Both are 501c3 not-for-profit companies whose missions include supporting media artists and connecting them with the community and one another.

 

"Band Boy" is the story of a fictional rock group in the early 80s, led by an idealistic young man from the rust-belt town of Ypsilanti, Mich. The band has a series of misadventures on the road, ending up in a New York recording studio with a washed-up producer and a clueless manager. The story is based on McKnight's experiences as a musician, producer and songwriter.

 

The film presents 12 new songs, written by McKnight and sung by the cast. The recordings are being produced by McKnight at local area studios. Post-production has begun, with Carlson and Beacco editing the footage shot this past summer in and around Sheffield's historic Dewey Hall.

 

"The film was shot with the techniques used in movie-making, including multiple takes, shooting out of sequence, and close range lighting, while also employing a live theater vibe, with representational sets, and a naturalistic, intimate atmosphere. By using this hybrid technique, we were able to create something which captures the best of both formats," McKnight said.

 

"Band Boy" is scheduled to debut in the spring of 2023, with screenings planned in Great Barrington, Pittsfield, North Adams, Albany, NY and Hudson, NY, as well as New York City and Los Angeles. It will also be entered in major film festivals, and made available to national Theater companies for live production.

 

Left to right: Marc A. Contento (lead actor), Liv Cummins (CAT), Diane Pearlman (BFMC), Sandy McKnight (writer-director), Wanda Houston (singer and actor), Beth Carlson (Silo Media), Kip Beacco (Silo Media). Photo by Rosemary Starace. (photo edited for security)