The STOODIS
Indigenous Film Festival
Sept. 27-30, 2024

FESTIVAL PASSES HERE                                                                                         SINGLE TICKETS HERE

In 2023, the STOODIS Indigenous Film Festival debuted, exploring the film industry's "Colonial Gaze" and immersing audiences in authentic Indigenous narratives. Thomas King's words, "The truth about stories, is that's all we are," underscored the festival's emphasis on the profound impact of storytelling, particularly on youth. 

The festival's design draws inspiration from the Medicine Wheel, a symbol of cultural significance, representing life's various facets for Indigenous communities. STOODIS aims to promote the normalization and celebration of Indigenous presence and perspectives. In the predominantly rural, settler community in which we live, the festival seeks to cultivate knowledge, support, and humanization of Indigenous people, fostering a shared understanding of past, present, and future.

In  2024, STOODIS will offer a celebration of diverse and compelling storytelling through film, live performances, and community engagement and conversations. The festival aims to showcase the work of emerging and established Indigenous artists while fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange. This year, STOODIS will spotlight global Indigenous resistance, excellence, and resurgence.

What is Barrier-Free Pricing?

The STOODIS Indigenous Film Festival is dedicated to ensuring its programming is accessible to everyone. Barrier-Free Pricing was introduced to tackle obstacles to accessing cultural events, ensuring that the festival experience is not tied to financial constraints. The goal is to make the festival experience primarily about the audience’s connection to the films and performances, while still honoring the value of the artists and their work.

Festival Coordinator Lesley Garlow aligns Barrier-Free Pricing with the Indigenous concepts of gift-giving and hospitality in community: "STOODIS is a gift to the community, rooted in reciprocal relationships and holistic practice. It reflects the responsibility to share wealth and benefits with others, especially for the well-being of future generations."

Barrier-free pricing is for everyone
The festival’s Barrier-Free Ticketing initiative allows anyone to attend, regardless of financial circumstances.

How it's different
Unlike traditional "by donation" or "pay-what-you-can" models, Barrier-Free Ticketing removes feelings of obligation or financial pressure.

How it works
Attendees can choose their ticket price: a dollar, a larger amount, a smile, or even a high five! When you arrive at the theatre, ask for your ticket (one, two...five tickets).  
If you don't want to pay anything, the attendee will simply give you a ticket and you can enter the theatre.
If you would like to pay something, present your payment (cash, debit or credit card are all accepted) and the the attendee will simply give you a ticket and you can enter the theatre.

If I pay, where will my money go?
All ticket income from STOODIS will go toward the costs of producing this year's festival and support the festival’s future work in presenting Indigenous films and programming. (If it is within your means, we also accept donations to support this work and can offer a charitable receipt for gifts.)

What is Playing:
The 2024 STOODIS Festival Line-up

Indigenous-led initiatives set with intention and vision with Indigenous perspectives at the centre, as we walk this path of healing together, is a medicine all its own.

~ STOODIS Festival Coordinator Lesley Garlow (Haudenosaunee, Cayuga, Turtle Clan)
Learn more about the Team