Last night at the Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF)’s Opening Night Gala at Marion Oliver McCaw Hall, Washington Filmworks was honored with the 11th Annual Mayor’s Award for Outstanding Achievement in Film. This marks the first time that an organization has received this awarded which recognizes exceptional work that has significantly contributed to the growth, advancement, and reputation of Seattle as a filmmaking city.

Mayor Ed Murray said in a recent press release for the award, “the incredible staff of Washington Filmworks dedicates their time every day to ensuring Seattle and our state are competitive locations for film productions. Thanks to their efforts, Seattle’s film community is working.”

Members of Washington Filmworks Board of Directors and staff were present to celebrate when Amy Lillard, Executive Director, accepted the award on behalf of the organization.  Lillard urged the audience to see at least one of the over 40 local films playing at SIFF this year reminding them to “remember the cast and crew who create these unforgettable movie moments – not only do these film professionals make great movies, they also make Seattle and Washington State a brilliant and beautiful place to live.”  She concluded her remarks by stating, “And we want to share this with the men and women from our local film community who inspire the work we do every day.” Read excerpts from the acceptance speech here.

Washington Filmworks would like to thank Mayor Ed Murray, the City of Seattle, and SIFF for this incredible honor. And to all current and past Washington Filmworks Board and staff members, thank you for your part in this incredible achievement!