After seven years at the helm, David Hatkoff is concluding his tenure as the executive director of NewFest, New York City's renowned LGBTQ film festival. His departure marks the end of a period characterized by substantial growth and increased prominence for the organization within the queer cinema landscape. The festival has announced that Lesli Klainberg, a distinguished figure with a history both at NewFest and as president of Film at Lincoln Center, will temporarily assume the leadership role while a comprehensive search for a permanent successor is underway.
Hatkoff's leadership, which began in 2019, transformed NewFest into the largest queer film festival in the United States. During his directorship, the festival's budget saw a remarkable expansion from an initial $500,000 to nearly $2.5 million, reflecting its burgeoning influence and reach. His contributions also include the successful launch of new initiatives such as 'Queering the Canon' and 'NewFest Pride,' further diversifying the festival's programming and engagement with the community. Klainberg, who previously served as NewFest's executive director from 2008 to 2011, returns with extensive experience, including over a decade at Film at Lincoln Center, and expresses enthusiasm for guiding the festival through this transitional phase.
NewFest's board of directors, co-chaired by Jane Sasseen and Ellery Washington, acknowledges Hatkoff's pivotal role in advancing the festival's mission and expresses confidence in Klainberg's ability to maintain its momentum. The upcoming 38th annual NewFest, scheduled for October 15-27, will proceed under Klainberg's interim direction, highlighting the festival's continuous commitment to showcasing queer stories and connecting with the broader LGBTQ+ community.
The enduring power of storytelling lies in its ability to amplify diverse voices and foster understanding. Institutions like NewFest play a vital role in providing a platform for narratives that challenge perceptions, celebrate identity, and build bridges of empathy within society. Their work underscores the importance of representation and the transformative impact of art in promoting inclusivity and acceptance.
