AAUW Redlands to host FilmFest matinee fundraiser April 26

REDLANDS, Calif. — AAUW Redlands will host an encore matinee screening of short films by women filmmakers on Sunday, April 26, as part of a fundraiser supporting scholarships and programs for local women and girls.

FilmFest AAUW Redlands begins at 2 p.m. at the Finkelstein Performing Arts Center Auditorium on the Crafton Hills College campus in Yucaipa. Doors open at 1:30 p.m.

Hosted by the Redlands branch of the American Association of University Women, the event raises money for scholarships, STEM education programs and leadership training for women and girls in the community.

The screening will feature a curated selection of short films described by organizers as artistic, thought-provoking and inspiring.

“These are films by women, for everyone,” Kathryn Brown, AAUW Redlands co-president, said in a statement.

Brown said the films are award-winning and culturally diverse, spanning drama, documentary and comedy, and incorporating animation and music.

“We are pleased for this wonderful opportunity to amplify the works of women filmmakers,” she said.

Amy Bisek, also co-president of AAUW Redlands, said this year marks the third year organizers have assembled their own lineup of short films.

“This is a one-time, unique event created specifically for our local community,” Bisek said in a statement. “Last year’s feedback was really great, and we can’t wait for everyone to see this year’s films.”

Organizers added the Sunday matinee after the premiere evening FilmFest event at Esri sold out this year.

Following the screening and a brief intermission, attendees may stay for a 4 p.m. audience discussion led by Heather King, chair of the English department at the University of Redlands.

Tickets are $25 for general admission and $15 for students, with parking included. Free parking will be available in Lots E and F.

Tickets are available online through Eventbrite. Businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities for both FilmFest events can contact FilmFest@AAUWRedlands.org.

AAUW Redlands is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing equity for women and girls through education, empowerment and advocacy.