Great Barrington — Jane Iredale has long been considered a leading lady in the Berkshires. It is not surprising that the highly anticipated Berkshire International Film Festival — affectionately known to locals as BIFF — has caught the attention of the woman who, before launching her cosmetics company in 1994, made a name for herself in film, television and theater. It also comes as no surprise, in an area rife with collaborations, that last Friday evening she partnered with Melissa Bigarel in throwing an invitation only makeup and fashion event at their new store, Louisa Ellis, on the corner of Railroad and Main Streets in Great Barrington. The event, held in collaboration with BIFF, served to highlight what Iredale calls a “gradual collaboration” between BIFF’s founder and Executive Director Kelley Vickery and Iredale Mineral Cosmetics, a collaboration that has resulted in Iredale’s sponsoring this year’s Opening Night Presentation of STEP! at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center on Thursday, June 1.
“I come out of an entertainment background, so I’ve always been very involved in the film world” says Iredale of her desire to partner with BIFF. Friday evening’s event captured the spirit of collaboration evident not only in BIFF but one that also pervades so much of life in the Berkshires. The duo of Iredale and Bigarel opened their doors at Louisa Ellis between 5-7:30 to offer styling tips and trade secrets to make every day a red-carpet event; their partnering with BIFF allowed them to share the excitement of getting ready for one of the most exciting film festivals in the country.
“It made sense for all of our leading ladies to help introduce the BIFF season,” said Bigarel whose invitation-only guest list included clients, donors, board members, supporters, colleagues and friends. Iredale added: “[It was] lots of fun to bring in BIFF and Louisa Ellis, add some fun makeup and lovely jewelry from McTeigue and McClelland, and enjoy a female collaboration.”
BIFF, now in its 12th season, was founded in 2005 by Kelley Vickery whose vision has culminated in a world-class festival that is an integral part of the cultural fabric of the Berkshires. BIFF showcases not only the latest in independent feature, documentary, short, and family films but also lively panel discussions and special events focusing on filmmakers and talented artists from both sides of the camera. According to Lauren Ferin, BIFF’s
Executive Assistant and Vickery’s proverbial right-hand-woman, visibility and collaboration continue to propel the energy leading up to the BIFF opening. While volunteers are busy with gift bag assembly and caterers meticulously plan menus, BIFF is stepping out into the community to help individuals navigate the more than 80 films, an intimidating task at best. Vickery has established a presence at Fuel coffee shop, on Main Street, where over the last two weeks she has been helping individuals who want to learn how to “BIFF.” In short, she is working to “take the intimidation out of the process” according to Ferin. Ferin’s rule of thumb, when asked, is to recommend any film where the filmmaker will be in attendance noting the excitement this creates as well as the Q&A sessions that often follow the film screening. In addition, Ferin likes to promote the BIFF experience in Pittsfield where patrons are “less likely to have to deal with crowds” while enjoying excellent restaurants, ample parking and the top-notch sound and DCP format at the Beacon Cinema.
In short, the BIFF season is rife with collaboration. Jane Iredale summed it up best: “I love the ability (of BIFF) to bring all different types of film to Great Barrington; it enriches the culture of the town and enriches our experience of the world.” She went on to add her affinity for “documentaries that expand our lives and educate while being actively entertaining” while commending Vickery and BIFF as “such a valuable addition to our area [as] anything that broadens our horizons” is a real asset.
When asked what she was most looking forward to in the upcoming film festival, Iredale did not miss a beat with her reply: an afternoon with Karen Allen and Kristi Zea. The film, “A Tree, A Rock, A Cloud” was shot in Sandisfield and marks the directorial debut of award winning actor/director Karen Allen. As to the allure of this particular film? “It’s hard getting films made, no matter who you are. If you are a woman, it can be particularly challenging” Iredale explained. “Two females, pushing the envelope” Iredale added…well, it doesn’t get much better than that.
For more information about the Berkshire International Film Festival, which takes place in Great Barrington and Pittsfield from June 1-4, visit www.biffma.org or call 413-528-8030.
