News Release Archive
NEWS RELEASE (CNS911) -->> ECONOMIC RENEWAL--FILM DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION NAMES NEW CEO ECONOMIC RENEWAL--FILM DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION NAMES NEW CEO ----------------------------------------------------------------- The Nova Scotia Film Development Corporation (NSFDC) has a new chief executive officer. Anne-Marie Varner, of Halifax, was named to the position by Economic Renewal Minister Richie Mann. In her new role, Ms. Varner is responsible for the government agency's funding, marketing, promotion and training initiatives. The NSFDC, a crown corporation, develops and promotes Nova Scotia's thriving private sector film and video industry, and administers programs designed to create employment and investment in film and video production. "I'm looking forward to building on the success of programs developed by the NSFDC that have supported series like Theodore Tugboat, This Hour Has 22 Minutes, and the new drama series, Black Harbour," said Ms. Varner. "As new markets for home-grown production continue to emerge, our investment in the Nova Scotia film and video community will become increasingly important." The film industry is a dynamic, high-profile part of the Nova Scotia economy. The corporation estimates the 1996-97 value of Nova Scotia productions and co-productions at $43 million. This does not include the substantial economic impact from funds spent in Nova Scotia by Hollywood producers who regularly use Nova Scotia as a film location. Mr. Mann said the Nova Scotia film and video industry is an example of growth and creativity. In 1993 production was valued at $7 million. By 1995 the figure jumped to $17 million. This year the industry has more than doubled its level of economic activity. Ms. Varner has extensive experience in the television industry. From 1988 to 1996 she was director of communications for Atlantic Television/Atlantic Satellite Network based in Halifax. Before working in Nova Scotia, she was promotion manager for CKVU-TV Vancouver, and promotion writer/producer at CFAC-TV, Calgary. She has received numerous awards within the television industry and has been an active volunteer in the Halifax Area arts and community organizations. -30- Contact: Rick Alexander 902-424-0927 trp Dec. 6, 1996 - 2:40 p.m.