Northampton Independent Film Festival (NIFF) Announces 2005 Festival Dates and appoints David Leo as New Festival Director

     (Northampton, MA, April 10, 2005) The Northampton Independent Film Festival announced today, the appointment of David Leo as the new Director for the Film Festival to be held November 9 - 13, 2005.

Leo, a resident of Wilbraham, MA has been involved with the Festival in the past as Managing Director and has taken on the position held for the past several years by Charles Burke of Leverett. Burke will remain involved as an advisor for the festival and plans to actively assist in the production. Burke will continue to serve on the Festival Board of Directors and will focus on film selection and programming of this year's events.

"This year's festival promises to be the biggest and brightest festival yet. I am thankful to the city of Northampton, the filmmakers, and volunteers who make this an extraordinary event and I encourage anyone interested in film to contact the Northampton Independent Film Festival to get involved ", stated Burke.

David Leo has successfully directed numerous theatrical, musical and industrial events both in New England and throughout the United States and brings over 20 years of artistic and organizational experience in both the arts and business to the NIFF leadership team.

"I'm thrilled and honored to be involved in one of the premier arts events held in the Pioneer Valley and I look forward to helping NIFF expand it's presence and influence throughout the artistic community as a world class independent film festival ", said Leo.

Doug Guthrie, Chairman for NIFF's Board of Directors said, "Under Charlie's leadership, this festival has developed into a world class event, and it's been a privilege to work along side of him. I look forward to continuing the traditions we have established over the past several years, and to the continued growth and success of NIFF."

Co-Chair of NIFF, David Klieler (and Director of the Boston Underground Film Festival) commented, "No doubt, David Leo has some big shoes to fill but, he has worked hand-in-hand with Charlie last year and I am confident in his abilities to continue with our vision for the future success of NIFF." The Northampton Film Festival began in 1994 and celebrated its 10th consecutive year last fall over the Halloween Weekend. The NIFF Office is located at the Northampton Center for the Arts on 17 New South Street in Northampton.

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