Sundance Film Festival 2024
Welcome to Utah! At Sundance Film Festival, every story line should include taking care of your health. For the eighth consecutive year, University of Utah Health is proud to serve as the festival’s Official Health & Wellness Partner. From January 18-28, we extend our community to include the 100,000+ artists, creatives, industry insiders, and film lovers from around the globe, as well as the thousands of staff and volunteers who work so hard to make the magic happen.
So how do we promote health and wellness at Sundance? We train staff and volunteers on de-escalation, provide health and wellness tips for our dry, high-altitude, winter climate, and place trained professionals in sensitive films. We foster conversations with partners like Canon and discuss the importance of empowering Indigenous filmmaking with dêtetsi vo'i oninjakan Winding Path, our Short Documentary Program entry into the festival. And, of course, if anyone needs health care services while they're in Utah, we're ready with five hospitals, 12 community health centers, and hundreds more facilities, all supported by 24,000 staff and students.
Here are our highlights for Sundance Film Festival 2024:
Schedule of Events
Canon Creative Studio Panel: "Porcelain War"
Join the filmmakers of "Porcelain War" and experts from Huntsman Mental Health Institute to talk about processing trauma through art and storytelling as a salve for the war-torn soul. Friday 1/19, 2 PM @ 528 Main Street, Park City.
Empowering Indigenous Storytelling
"Winding Path" co-director Alex Lazarowich (Cree) joins Adam Piron, director of the Sundance Indigenous Program, to discuss their work and their passion for authentic Native stories. Sunday 1/21, 6 PM @ Modern West Fine Art in SLC.
New Narratives in Health
How can film help us bridge the gap between health systems and the communities that need better care? A panel of experts discuss the intersection between mental health and artistic representation. Monday 1/22, 4:30 PM @ Filmmaker Lodge in Park City.
Winter Wellness Tips
Here are a few tips to help you stay healthy as you navigate through snowy streets, busy schedules, and late nights. Enjoy the festival!
Physical Wellness
1. And . . . action! While the movies will move your soul, you’re responsible for your body. Stay active between movie premieres. Do some stretching. Walk from one theatre to the next to get your blood flowing—your body will give you a standing ovation.
2. Drink it all in. You’re at 7,000 feet of altitude, so it’s smart to stay hydrated. Start the day with water—and then drink another 8 to 10 cups of water throughout the day.
3. Remember, you don’t have a stunt double. Take care while walking on icy sidewalks and when crossing the street. Leave the falls to the pros.
4. Give yourself time to dream about the movies you’ve seen. Late nights are hard to avoid at Sundance Film Festival. But still try to get a solid night of sleep—seven to eight hours if you can.
5. You are your best wardrobe department. Wear layers to adjust to the indoor and outdoor spaces. And don’t forget winter-sensible footwear to navigate the ice and snow.
Emotional Wellness
1. Applaud the artists. Take a moment to thank the artists who shared their creativity this week, along with the crews who make Sundance Film Festival an amazing experience.
2. Utah: no CGI needed. Connect with Utah’s great nature. Take a snowshoe hike. Admire the views. Catch a snowflake. Breathe in that fresh mountain air.
3. No second takes: these moments only happen once. Actively participate in mindful moments. Before entering a crowded theater or restaurant, engage with your senses and environment to commit to your experience. Savor your food, company, and conversations.
Social Wellness
1. Go off script. It’s easy for all of us to lose sight of attentive listening. When speaking with old friends and new colleagues, ask open-ended questions and engage in conversation. The best moments happen that way.
2. Curiosity makes a great story line. When standing in line, take the bold step of striking up a conversation with someone new. It’s a fun way to make fresh connections and learn more about your fellow attendees.
3. Take 5. Or better yet, 10. Sundance Film Festival has a way of occupying your every waking hour. Take social breaks and me-time between parties and screenings. These breaks can keep you going all week long. Grabbing a cup of coffee or a healthy snack offers a mindful moment before diving into your next scene.
How to Fest Safely
Films can make us laugh, cry, experience the joy of surprise, and escape from our own reality. But movies impact each of us differently. Here's how to keep your mental health in mind as you enjoy Sundance Film Festival 2024.
