The world’s biggest showcase of Australian film will be exhibited at the 2010 Dungog Film Festival, running over a four day weekend from 27 to 30 May with an exciting addition to the event this year – Speed Auditioning.

Now in its fourth year, the Festival, attracting over 11,000 people since its inception, will feature a dynamic new program that celebrates film in a non-competitive environment.

Open to promising actors, this new initiative will provide a challenge for undiscovered acting talent. Entrants will perform a monologue in front of an expert judging panel, with the winner receiving $5000 and acting representation.

“The Dungog Film Festival was created to discover and support Australian film and talent. The new additions to the 2010 program will provide the opportunity for filmmakers and actors to showcase their work to industry audiences and further their appreciation of Australian film, ” said Dungog Film Festival founder and director Allanah Zitserman.

The Dungog Film Festival founder and director, Allanah Zitserman

The Festival line up will also feature a selection of Australian features, shorts and documentaries, alongside popular programs such as seminars, master classes, Australian classic films, major events and live script performances.

Dungog Film Festival’s dedicated principal presenting sponsor NSW Minerals Council is continuing their support once again this year. NSW Mining has been instrumental in helping to grow and sustain the Festival. CEO Dr Nikki Williams said the NSW Mining industry is extremely proud to continue its support.

“This is our third year sponsoring the Dungog Film Festival, which we see as an investment in regional NSW. It inspires innovation and creates economic and artistic opportunities for the wider region. It’s another tangible way we can show our support for the Hunter,” shesaid.

The Festival is pleased to receive the ongoing support of Government partners Screen NSW, Dungog Shire Council, National Film and Sound Archive and strategic partner Events NSW. Minister of State and Regional Development and Minister for Major Events, Ian Macdonald said regional events such as Dungog Film Festival provide great economic benefits for the surrounding areas.

“There is no doubt that the Dungog Film Festival plays a vital role in driving tourism, creating jobs and delivering major economic benefits to the Dungog community, Macdonald said.

The Dungog Film Festival is one of many regional events injecting more than $50 million into the NSW economy.

“The Keneally Government is serious about supporting events in regional areas of NSW. That’s why it is important to fund great events such as the Dungog Film Festival enjoyed by over 11 000 people. The 2010 NSW Master Events Calendar includes many regional events that inject more than $50 million of economic benefit into NSW.”

To experience this four-day cinematic celebration and to enjoy the world-class event that is the Dungog Film Festival, tickets are on sale through Ticketmaster for further information simply visit the Festival information hub by clicking here.