MESSAGES HIS HONOUR THE HONOURABLE RUSS MIRASTY Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan Welcome to North America’s longest running film festival! Established in 1947, the Yorkton Film Festival has an impressive history and we are proud that Saskatchewan is the home of this national event. I am grateful to the staff, board, volunteers and partners who are continuing this celebration on a virtual platform this year. Film is a powerful medium of communication, education and inspiration. Thank you for giving Canadian filmmakers this valuable opportunity. I congratulate everyone who has an entry in this year’s festival; thank you for enriching our lives through film. Please accept my best wishes for a successful and enjoyable festival.
THE RIGHT HONOURABLE JUSTIN TRUDEAU Prime Minister of Canada I am pleased to extend my warmest greetings to everyone attending the 2021 Yorkton Film Festival (YFF). Now in its 74th year, this event provides a platform for emerging and established Canadian filmmakers to showcase their talent and share their stories. I am certain that everyone in attendance will be entertained and engaged by the diverse selection of films being screened this year. It continues to be a challenging time for planning and hosting events. That is why I would like to thank the festival organizers for their hard work and dedication in ensuring this year’s edition of the Yorkton Film Festival could still take place. You can take pride in your commitment to promoting and supporting Canadian filmmakers. Please accept my best wishes for a memorable experience.
THE HONOURABLE SCOTT MOE Premier of Saskatchewan On behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan, I am pleased to welcome you to the 2021 Yorkton Film Festival (YFF). Since 1947, the YFF has been encouraging filmmakers to produce some of the best original Canadian documentaries and short films. Proud to be the longest running film festival in North America, YFF is committed to bringing filmmakers and Canadian audiences together; undaunted by our unprecedented circumstance. In addition to providing great entertainment for film enthusiasts, this annual event provides valuable networking opportunities for filmmakers and industry representatives. And, through the Best of Fest Tour, YFF expands the audience by offering DVDs for home viewing. The Golden Sheaf, now produced at a foundry in Pense, and other awards honour the dedication and creativity of our talented Canadian artists and lend important recognition to their work. Best wishes to all the entrants and congratulations to the award recipients. Thank you to the YFF Board of Directors, staff, partners, adjudicators, volunteers and participants for your generous support of this iconic festival. Best wishes for a memorable event.
THE HONOURABLE LAURA ROSS Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport It is true we are living in remarkable times, and it will take time and reflection to put our shared experience into perspective. Filmmakers have been doing just that for over a century, and the Yorkton Film Festival has been celebrating the art form and its creators for more than 74 years. Through Creative Saskatchewan, the Government of Saskatchewan supports a range of creative sectors, including film and television production, emerging screen producers, as well as music, galleries, craft, digital and theatre. Funding also supports music industry events and film festivals including the wellknown event in Yorkton. Although this year the entire Festival will be virtual, it will still be capped-off on Saturday evening by the online Awards Gala where this year's Golden Sheaf Award winners will be announced! So welcome to the one and only Yorkton Film Festival – Online for 2021 - Where you’ll see great films and still receive a good helping of the prairie hospitality you’ve come to love.
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