Gateway Film Center’s youth program is not so young anymore. Celebrating its 100th event, Hoot — a monthly family film series — is throwing a party.
“Hoot is a fun, affordable and exciting way for kids to discover new things in the world,” says Chris Hamel, president and programmer for Gateway. “I think I will always be proud of our efforts to offer parents new ways to introduce their children to the arts.”
According to Hamel, “This monthly program combines art, crafts, music, dancing, cartoons and short films from around the world for children and families.”
The program has taken place on the last Saturday of the month (barring holidays) for 100 months, featuring, among other things, short films from around the globe.
“We try to keep most things at the center focused on an attitude of discovery,” Hamel says. “Finding a new way of understanding the world is one of the most exciting discoveries a child can make.”
More than just international ‘toons and shorts, the event also boasts live music, dancing and activities, all grouped around the month’s theme. Performance by local band The Shazzbots, a multi-Emmy winning group that’s been entertaining children for more than ten years.
“The Shazzbots have been incredible partners throughout these 100 editions of the program,” Hamel says. “They guide the audience through the show and I think kids really love them and the content.”
All this with at the rock-bottom price of a single donation to The Open Shelter.
“Hoot has also always offered free admission with a canned good, which has allowed the center to donate tons of food to help families in our community,” Hamel says. “The Open Shelter has a long tradition of providing for crucial needs to central Ohio families in crisis. We’re proud to continue to support their great work.”
Catch Hoot at 10 a.m. the last Saturday of every month except November, because of Thanksgiving. Instead, December sees two Hoots, one the first Saturday, one the last.
“It is my hope that Hoot continues for another decade and more,” says Hamel. “It’s a great program for the center and our entire community.”
Remaining 2019 Hoot events and themes:
- June 29: Happy Birthday!
- July 27: Radio
- Aug 31: Colors
- Sep 28: The Moon
- Oct 26: Halloween Hoot
- Dec 7: Holiday Hoot
- Dec 29: Space
Read more from Hope at MADDWOLF and listen to her weekly movie review podcast, SCREENING ROOM.