Anne Chaisson, the executive director of Hamptons Film Festival’s presenting organization HamptonsFilm, has announced her decision to step down from her position following this year’s fall festival. Chaisson, who initially joined HamptonsFilm as a film producer, has been with the organization since 2002 when she co-founded and co-chaired the advisory board. In 2012, she took on the role of executive director, overseeing the festival’s growth and development over the years.
Randy Mastro, the Chairman of the Board for HamptonsFilm, has revealed plans to appoint a subcommittee of the board to conduct a national search for Chaisson’s successor. The new executive director will be selected after the conclusion of this year’s festival in October. This decision marks a significant transition for the festival as it looks to bring in fresh leadership to carry on the organization’s mission and vision.
Since its inception in 1992, the Hamptons Film Festival has grown into a prominent event on the fall circuit, attracting industry professionals and film enthusiasts to the east end of Long Island. The festival’s success can be attributed to the presence of influential figures in the entertainment industry who frequent the Hamptons during the summer months. Additionally, the region’s rapid development, exemplified by the transformation of Montauk, has contributed to the festival’s rise in stature.
During her tenure as executive director, Anne Chaisson spearheaded several initiatives that have shaped the festival’s programming and outreach efforts. These include the introduction of programs such as Compassion, Justice, and Animal Rights, the Air Land and Sea Signature series, weekly year-round “now showing” screenings, free outdoor summer screenings, and educational programs. Chaisson also introduced new awards to recognize individuals in the creative space, female screenwriters, and narrative short filmmakers.
As the festival gears up for this year’s 11-day event in October, Artistic Director David Nugent, along with the programming team and fest production crew, will continue their preparations under Chaisson’s guidance. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid pandemic, Chaisson successfully navigated the festival through virtual events and drive-ins, adapting to the changing landscape of film festivals. Her departure marks the end of an era at HamptonsFilm, with the board expressing gratitude for her dedication and service over the past 12 years.
The upcoming changes at Hamptons Film Festival signal a new chapter for the organization as it looks to build on its past successes and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. The search for a new executive director presents an opportunity to bring in fresh perspectives and ideas to further elevate the festival’s profile in the industry. Anne Chaisson’s departure marks the end of a transformative era, but her legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape the future direction of HamptonsFilm.