Welcome everyone, to Reelout 11! In moving through the past ten years and now entering our second decade, we have shed our humble lower case “r” for the grand capital “R” we have become. Many doubted a small, urban centre like Kingston could sustain a large, queer arts event and thanks to the dedication of our community of volunteers, the financial support of local businesses and organizations, all tiers of government, and our wonderful audiences, Reelout is recognized both nationally and internationally as a champion of independent queer film and artists.

Complementing this capital change, we are also proud to introduce our new, full colour festival guide, which we hope will showcase not just our stellar line-up of films, but also better serve our local sponsors who generously fund the festival’s operations. We hope you will take the time to review the many local businesses and organizations displayed herein and recognize their commitment to our community.

Reelout is also happy to announce our new Membership Program that will enable community members an opportunity to vote at our Annual General Meeting, borrow films from our new lending library, receive the latest festival news as well as discounts on individual tickets or festival passes. We would like to encourage everyone to take advantage of this wonderful program and purchase your membership through the Reelout office by calling (613) 549-REEL or at the festival itself where booths will be set up for your convenience!

On a final note, many of you may remember our new Festival & Programming Director Matt Salton, who has been a longtime supporter and volunteer for Reelout. After directing Calgary’s FairyTales Queer Diversity Film Festival over the past three years, we were thrilled to welcome him and his partner Chris, back to Kingston and the Reelout community. Matt has worked tirelessly these past several months to bring us the best Reelout year yet and we offer him our sincerest thanks.

Once again, we’d like to thank all of our sponsors and volunteers for making not just this year a success, but for getting us where we are today, and wish you all a wonderful festival!

Reelout Board of Directors