Round Top Film Festival Company Profile

Background

The Round Top Film Festival (RTFF) was established in 2024 by the mother-daughter duo, Shanna and Skylar Schanen. Located in Round Top, Texas, RTFF is dedicated to enriching the community through the power of film and the arts. The festival's mission is to ignite creativity, encourage learning, and provide a cultural experience that leaves audiences inspired. By curating a program that includes the best films from around the world, RTFF aims to create opportunities for open dialogue, appreciation, and the celebration of diverse voices in cinema.

Key Strategic Focus

RTFF's strategic focus centers on fostering creativity and education within the film industry. The festival specializes in showcasing a diverse selection of films, including full-length features, documentaries, shorts, and music videos. By hosting film screenings, workshops, and events, RTFF aims to educate and inspire the next generation of filmmakers, celebrating the diverse avenues within the art of filmmaking and the beauty of Round Top, Texas.

Financials and Funding

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, RTFF relies on sponsorships, donations, and ticket sales to fund its operations. The festival offers various sponsorship opportunities, allowing partners to integrate their brands into the event and reach a highly engaged audience. Sponsorship benefits include media placement, VIP guest experiences, onsite activations, targeted marketing campaigns, print recognition, and product integration.

Pipeline Development

RTFF is currently accepting film submissions for its 2025 festival, scheduled for November 6-9. The festival plans to screen over 40 films, including narratives, documentaries, shorts, features, music videos, and a celebration of Lone Star State cinema in Texas Throwbacks. Submissions are open through August 18, 2025, with categories such as Narrative Feature, Documentary Feature, and various short film categories.

Technological Platform and Innovation

RTFF leverages the FilmFreeway platform for film submissions, streamlining the process for filmmakers worldwide. The festival's programming is carefully curated to reflect the laid-back atmosphere and fun-loving attitude of Round Top, featuring a diverse selection of features and short films, each screening offering audiences an opportunity to immerse themselves in captivating storytelling and cinematic artistry.

Leadership Team

Shanna Schanen, Co-Founder and Executive Director: Originally from La Grange, Texas, Shanna has a diverse background in community engagement and fundraising. She has served as President of the Board at Uptown Dance and held leadership roles in the National Charity League. In 2024, she co-founded RTFF with her daughter, Skylar, combining her love for film with her dedication to fostering artistic expression and community enrichment.

Skylar Schanen, Co-Founder and Education Director: Skylar's filmmaking journey began at 17 with her screenplay "SPACE CASE," which achieved significant success on the festival circuit. She studied at Chapman University's Dodge College of Film and Media Arts and has directed short films such as "ANGEL" and "DEEP DOWN." In 2024, she co-founded RTFF, further solidifying her presence in the industry.

Blair Hunt, Artistic Director: Blair holds a bachelor's degree in Marketing/Communications & Advertising from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She has extensive experience in large-scale event management, contributing to festivals like Napa Valley Film Festival, Sonoma Film Festival, Mill Valley Film Festival, and Sundance Film Festival. Her roles have included producing events, securing talent, and serving in directorial capacities.

Mickey Duzdevich, Programming Director: With over 15 years of experience in the film festival industry, Mickey has served as Senior Programmer and Festival Director at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. He holds a BA in Film and Media Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and has been instrumental in connecting students with industry opportunities at Chapman University's Dodge College.

Karen Willis, Marketing Director: Karen brings over 13 years of technology marketing experience from companies like AT&T, Hewlett Packard, and Questia. She earned her BBA in Marketing and Management and an MBA with an emphasis in Brand Management from the University of Wisconsin in Madison. Karen has an extensive volunteer resume and a deep appreciation for the film world, having grown up in a movie industry family.

Rob Schanen, Development Director: A native Texan, Rob has been deeply involved in community activities and supports RTFF's mission to bring cultural enrichment to Round Top and surrounding areas.

Michele Tharp, Sponsor Marketing Manager: Michele has over two decades of experience in film and entertainment marketing, having served as Director of Marketing at the California Film Institute and Head of Marketing at VuHaus Group. Her talent for envisioning effective marketing strategies continues to shape and inspire the narrative of the industry.

Kaitlyn Ryan, Festival Operations Manager: Kaitlyn has been managing and producing festival operations and box offices for independent film festivals for the last six years. She works primarily out of the 9th St. Independent Film Center in San Francisco and brings a passion for inclusivity, diversity, and equitable spaces to every event she works.

Janyce Marcus, Education & Grants Manager; Founders Circle Concierge: Janyce is a dedicated advocate for enhancing children's lives through education and community involvement. She began her career in the technology sector, working with industry giants Apple Computer and Dell Technologies, and has since channeled her efforts into impactful volunteer work.

Debbie Young Aldine, Volunteer Manager (Seasonal): With a rich background as an Air Traffic Controller for over 30 years, Debbie brings precision and leadership skills to managing complex operations. She has served as the Volunteer Director for the Napa Valley Film Festival and is excited to bring her expertise to RTFF.

Aileen Fowler, Guest Services Manager: Aileen is an experienced festival professional with a deep-rooted passion for the film industry. She has coordinated the complex logistics of travel, lodging, and itineraries for festivals hosting between 50 to 250 guests, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for filmmakers and guests.

Leadership Changes

As a newly established festival, RTFF has built a robust leadership team with diverse backgrounds in film, marketing, and event management. There have been no significant leadership changes since its inception in 2024.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The film festival industry in Texas is vibrant and competitive, with several established events attracting filmmakers and audiences. The market is characterized by a growing interest in regional festivals that offer unique cultural experiences and opportunities for emerging filmmakers.

Competitor Analysis

Austin Film Festival: Known for its focus on screenwriting, this festival attracts industry professionals and offers extensive networking opportunities.

Dallas International Film Festival: Showcases a diverse range of films and has a strong reputation for supporting independent filmmakers.

Hill Country Film Festival: A smaller festival that emphasizes independent films and provides a platform for emerging talent.

Oak Cliff Film Festival: Celebrated for its eclectic programming and support of avant-garde cinema.

RTFF differentiates itself by combining the charm of Round Top with a curated selection of films, fostering a laid-back yet sophisticated festival atmosphere.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

RTFF collaborates with local businesses, artists, and the Round Top Festival Institute to create a unique festival experience. The festival's centerpiece venue is the Round Top Festival Institute’s 210-acre campus, Festival Hill, founded by world-renowned concert pianist James Dick. This partnership provides a prestigious setting for screenings, parties, and industry networking opportunities.

Operational Insights

RTFF's strategic considerations include leveraging Round Top's reputation as a cultural hub to attract filmmakers and audiences seeking a distinctive festival experience. The festival's women-led team is dedicated to bringing the excitement of the film industry to the community, aiming to educate and inspire the next generation of filmmakers.