We know first hand how HOT Massachusetts is with bright lights in the Public Garden, cameras shooting in Fenway and more action at the hot spot, Lucky’s Lounge. Hip spots like these lure Hollywood filmmakers like Kevin James, Mark Wahlberg and Adam Sandler back to the Bay State, but the benefits keep us here.
Six years ago, the film tax credit benefits kicked into action here in the Bay State and it was up to the Massachusetts Film Office (MFO) to make Mass as the film destination of choice. A year later, Nick Paleologos jumped on stage and became the executive director of the MFO. Under his tenure, the MFO attracted more than a billion dollars of new direct spending into the Commonwealth. But a year ago, when the governor proposed to cap our livelihood, Paleologos solicited against the Governor. After the cap was withdrawn his position was reduced and the curtain closed for Paleologos.
Since then, the MFO has been reorganized under a new bill that was passed last August. Under this bill, the Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT) has been in charge of making it happen here in the Commonwealth.
“Lisa is a stand-out in the industry and is the right person to lead the Massachusetts Film Office into the future,” said Betsy Wall, Executive Director of MOTT. “She will bring nearly three decades of experience to her new role, and promises to build on our efforts to make Massachusetts the premier destination for film and television projects.”
The Lexington native started her career here in Boston over 30 years ago and truly has come full circle. Stout might be new to this set but she has been hot to trot for the New Mexico Film Office since 2001, managed a total of 156 major film and television productions throughout her tenure.
“I am truly honored by this opportunity to work for the Patrick-Murray Administration and my home state of Massachusetts,” said Strout. “The Commonwealth’s leaders are committed to supporting an industry that creates high-wage jobs and supports local businesses, attracts private investment and grows our creative economy. Together, we will make the Massachusetts film industry tops in the nation.”
Strout starts her new role on June 15. Click here for more information on the MFO.
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