RENO, NV – Just in time before this year’s Burning Man event, The Knitting Factory is proud to host the official Burning Man Film Festival/Playa Launch Party on Thursday, August 19th from 4 -10pm.

Three award winning documentaries will exclusively be seen on several big screens from 4-8pm. The Burning Man Film Festival is offered in part as a fundraising effort to support the current art installation “Duel Nature” by Kate Raudenbush – currently on display on the Riverwalk in downtown Reno, Nevada. The Reno Burners LLC group will also benefit from proceeds from the film festival and related sales.

Full length features will be shown, including:
“Burning Man” (1991) by Larry Harvey
“Burning Man MCMXCVII” (1997) by Chuck Cirino
“Beyond Black Rock” (2002) by Mike Wilson & Damon Brown

The Playa Launch Party starts at 8pm, with dance music from DJ’s direct from the playa, electric poi spinner, hoopers, and an amazing line up of surprise guests, activities and entertainment not to be missed. Additional short films will be shown throughout the evening to welcome seasoned burners and “newbies” to the art and culture that is Burning Man.

Tickets to the festival are just $10 at the door for those in costume, and $15 without Burning Man costumes.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Black Rock Arts Foundation’s current installation in downtown Reno, as well as establishing an ongoing fund to develop more locally placed art installations, from Burning Man, throughout northern Nevada.

“This Film Festival and Pre-Playa Launch Party is a great way to experience the rich history and culture of Burning Man, for both loyal “Burners” and those who have never been to the event. With the Knitting Factory’s generous support, we are planning a great night of film, fun, and Burning Man culture,” said Maria Partridge, Reno project liaison for BRAF and Advisory Board member.

“We are proud to sponsor and host this cultural event just before Burning Man which happens the week before Labor Day.” said Dean Hanson, The Knitting Factory (Reno) General Manager. “Burning Man’s rich history and culture offer great art to northern Nevada, and we are eager to support the Black Rock Arts Foundation’s installations and future plans here in Reno”.

WHEN: Thursday, August 19th, 2010: 4pm to 10pm
WHERE: The Knitting Factory, 211 North Virginia Street, Reno, NV
WHAT: Burning Man Film Festival: benefiting the Black Rock Arts Foundation and Burning Man Reno. Knitting Factory bars will available for attendees 21+ years old.