The VES was formed in 1997 in response to the explosive growth in the visual effects industry. It is a professional, honorary society, dedicated to advancing the arts, sciences and applications of visual effects, and to improving the welfare of its members by providing professional enrichment and education, fostering community and promoting industry recognition. The 2006 Festival of Visual Effects will be open to the public.
The Egyptian Theatre is a Hollywood landmark of historical significance. Originally built in 1922 for Sid Grauman, it was restored and renovated by the American Cinematheque, which now operates the showcase Lloyd E. Rigler theatre with 650 seats and the Steven Spielberg theatre with 83 seats. The 2006 Festival of Visual Effects will use both theatres during the course of this year's festival.
"Each year the Festival has grown in scope and number of attendees,” says executive director Eric Roth. “This venue shows how much the VES has expanded as well as the visual effects industry's continually-increasing influence on the business of films, animation, games and television."
Information on buying festival passes or tickets to individual events will soon be available at the organization’s official Web site: www.visualeffectssociety.com.