Can Kansas City Become Hollywood of the Midwest? KC Film’s New Lead, Rachel Kephart, Pitches her Vision
In the Heartland, hopes are running high as the film industry in Kansas City, Missouri, embarks on an exciting new chapter. Win-back measures, particularly proactive tax incentives that attract filming projects to the city, have created a buzz, bolstering the regional film industry’s progress. Overseeing the city’s renewed momentum is the Kansas City Film Office’s new director, Rachel Kephart, who’s rallying to make Kansas City the next big hub for Hollywood.
Setting the Stage for Local Filmmaking
Last year, Governor Mike Parson rolled out a game-changing film tax incentive program. This promised a tax break of 20% on qualifying expenses over $50,000 for short films and exceeding $100,000 for feature productions, subject to certain prerequisites. The strategic motive helped Kansas City, the only city formerly operating local filming incentives without a statewide program, gain substantial traction in film production.
A New Era for KC Film
Setting the stage for KC’s film renaissance is the new steward of the Kansas City Film Office, Rachel Kephart. “If a story is set in Kansas City, it can now be filmed here in ways that make sense to the industry,” says Kephart. Her vision extends not only to attract outside businesses but also to empower local filmmakers with better resources. Kephart excitedly notes, “Now they (local talents) have the financial leverage to make their projects happen right at home. Outside projects boost our economy, but most importantly they empower our local crew.”
Kephart took over from former Kansas City Film Office Director Steph Shannon, who championed the office since its re-establishment in 2014. With her past experiences coordinating with projects like “American Ninja Warrior”, “Temptation Island”, and TLC’s “Love & Translation”, Kephart brings a wealth of cross-regional experience to the table along with an earnest desire to create a conducive ecosystem for local filmmakers and industry professionals.
Building Sustainable Careers in Film
“I want Kansas City to be a place where aspiring filmmakers and crew feel they can have a sustainable career without feeling the need to leave to gain experience in other markets.” Kephart enunciates her motive. Her enthusiasm for the city’s unique topography and its potential to become a versatile filming location is evident as she navigates the narrative diversity offered by rural landscapes, suburban pockets, and eclectic neighborhoods.
The Road Ahead
As the regional film industry thrives under these newfound incentives, Kephart hints at a busy year ahead. She reflects on the recent enlivened activity, including reality show bookings and ongoing feature films on schedule.
Kephart’s vision for the local arena isn’t limited to attracting big projects. Instead, she aims to ensure a sustainable local industry and a burgeoning talent pool. She proposes, “As we get busier, one of the challenges is that we’ll have to grow our workforce. I intend to strengthen programs at the university level and develop apprenticeship programs to create hands-on learning experiences for our budding talents.”
With dedicated enthusiasm and a practiced eye, Rachel Kephart heralds an era of prolific opportunities for Kansas City’s film industry. The heartland now resounds with her ambition for the city to rise as the next significant industry hub in the Midwest.
