staff spotlight

AUSTIN FREDERICK AV COORDINATOR

How long you have worked for Waterville Creates?

I started in my current role as AV Coordinator for the Maine Film Center in November 2022, although I might be familiar to some as a former MIFF intern for many years.

What does a “typical” day look like for you?

My typical day involves a lot of tech tasks—checking out the films when they arrive, getting everything ready for the upcoming week of showtimes, and emails. Lots of emails.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy almost everything about my job, but my favorite thing would probably be getting to see our patrons, both new faces and well-known regulars, experience the arts every day!

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Either one of two scenarios: 1) standing in the absolute quiet of nature, with nobody else around, just observing the world around me; or, 2) sitting in a dark theater, lost in a film, with popcorn (extra butter and a little salt).

Can you recommend a play, musical, or movie experience to our readers?

Let’s do one of each! Play: Anything written or adapted by Ken Ludwig (non-stop laughs).

Musical: Mamma Mia (it’s a classic!). Movie: Mid-week matinees in the Waterville Opera House during MIFF (no matter the film, the ambience is unrivaled).

Who are your favorite filmmakers?

I’m a fan of older films, so I gravitate toward directors like John Ford, Sergio Leone, and Douglas Sirk. Kelly Reichardt and Bill Morrison are my favorite contemporary filmmakers.