You might be asking yourself, “What is a Television Festival?” Most people do. Though there are thousands of film and music festivals, in and out of Austin, there is nothing like ATX. Our focus is on the celebration of the medium: looking back at its history, where it is now, and where it is headed. Our weekend will consist of events where attendees can interact with actors, writers, directors, creators, showrunners, music supervisors, casting directors and studio executives involved in all stages of bringing their favorite series to the small screen.
We have all the functionality of a traditional film festival with screenings followed by Q&A’s from the cast and creators; panels focused on industry related topics, and an array of events that includes parties, live music, meet-ups, social media events, and “super secret happy hours.” Unlike traditional festivals, however, we celebrate the history of the medium as well as the future. We spotlight classic shows, never aired pilots, cancelled too soon series, cult favorites, current hits, and premieres of new series. Since we are geared 50% towards the biggest television fans and 50% towards those working or wanting to work in the industry, our panels range in topics from behind-the-scenes looks at your favorite shows to ”how we’re currently watching TV” and innovative outlets to continue production outside of the network/studio system. Ultimately, ATX Television Festival has the goal of serving both the community and industry professionals equally by giving them the opportunity to discuss and celebrate all aspect of TV together.
Co-founders Caitlin McFarland and Emily Gipson have spent the better part of a decade in a variety of areas of the entertainment industry — from film & television production to working within the network & studio systems; as well as being on the ground level of both the festival and filmmaker sides of Sundance, Tribeca and Doha Tribeca. Combining their knowledge, along with a wide number of prominent industry professionals that make up the Advisory Board, they are introducing a one-of-a-kind festival experience.