Today we’d like to introduce you to Celeste Bird.
Hi Celeste, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Growing up, I was a big theater kid, and I still am! Immersing myself in theater at a young age is really what I consider as the inception of my journey. At present, I work as a freelance First Assistant Director. In addition to this role, my focus centers on building a career as an independent producer.
I was raised in Moorpark, a little town about an hour north of Los Angeles. During my high school years, I juggled commitments to the girls volleyball team and performing arts program. At the time, I wanted to pursue professional volleyball as a career. But during my last semester as a senior, my theater teacher gave me the opportunity to produce a one-act play for the program. It was during the process of crafting that play that I discovered my passion: bringing artists together to tell stories.
As the time came to decide on my major, I was certain about pursuing producing as a career. I received my AA in Film, Television & Electronic Media from Moorpark College and completed my Bachelor of Arts in Film Production at Cal State Northridge. Throughout college, I served as an assistant director and producer for various productions and directed a film for the Alliance for Women in Entertainment. I was given many opportunities to produce inside and outside the university from my former Professor, Nate Thomas – Head of Film Production at CSUN. Without his guidance and support, I would not be where I am today. Post-graduation, I was selected to intern in the Production Track for the Academy Gold Rising Program – a Talent Development and Inclusion Initiative under the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. This program has been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of my path.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Navigating my career has not been easy, and it probably never will be. Learning how to manage multiple projects simultaneously while also working in different departments was something I had to figure out at a very fast pace. Of course every project comes with its own set of obstacles, but conquering them with a team is what I look forward to the most.
I have a good understanding of the steps I need to take in order to accomplish the kind of work I hope to do in this industry. Overcoming obstacles has been pivotal in my personal and professional growth. Genuinely, I just view these challenges as essential components of the journey.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a 1st AD, my role involves coordinating the logistical intricacies of film shoots, ensuring a smooth and efficient production process. My involvement as a producer allows me to contribute creatively to projects where I’m able to merge both the technical and artistic aspects of a production. The projects I work on range from commercial to film, and I’m currently in pre-production for my first feature-length film.
Last year, I produced ‘Ravine’, an incredibly powerful film written and directed by Selene Alvarez. ‘Ravine’ is based on the history of forceful evictions that took place in 1959 in the communities of La Loma, Palo Verde, and Bishop, Los Angeles. Last year, we had a successful run in the festival circuit, screening at various festivals throughout the US and internationally. ‘Ravine’ won Best Original Idea at the 2023 Monza Film Fest, and was selected to screen at the 27th annual LA Shorts International Film Festival.
As a producer, my greatest goal is to create impactful and resonant stories that not only entertain but also inspire and provoke thought. I firmly believe that the power of storytelling lies in its ability to connect people from various backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. Therefore, one of my primary objectives is to champion diversity and inclusion in the narratives I bring to life. Fostering a collaborative and passionate team is at the core of my approach as a producer. I believe that a team driven by genuine passion for the stories they are telling can elevate a project to new heights.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Some of my favorite memories have been teaming up with talented young artists and filmmakers that I met in college. We’re all on this journey beyond the university, and seeing what everyone in my cohort is achieving is truly inspiring. The amazing stories they’re bringing to life and the dedication to their craft – it’s beautiful.
Now, it’s more important than ever to share authentic narratives that are rooted in our communities, ones that are capable of sparking positive societal change and offer unique perspectives. In this evolving landscape of filmmaking, I think the key to our progress lies in prioritizing representation and inclusivity. At the end of the day, the powerful stories we tell will shape the change we hope to see in this industry.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://celestebird.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/celestebird/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/celestebird/
- Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12821919/
