Dedicated volunteers from across the country have generously devoted their time and commitment to the Sundance Film Festival over the last 40 years. Now, as we gear up for the 2024 Festival, we’re putting the spotlight on them with our volunteer questionnaire. Because, like our volunteers, each memory is special and unique.
Susan Lee Strauss has been a Sundance Film Festival volunteer for 28 years, and she’s seen it all. She’s driven artists, worked alongside Institute staff, and even ran her own venue. However, all of that aside, what truly makes Strauss’ volunteer experiences unforgettable are the relationships she’s developed over nearly three decades.
“[Volunteering] at the Eccles has been like being part of a family. Although things have changed a lot, it still feels like coming home,” Strauss says.
Based out of the Festival’s home in Park City, Utah, Strauss has worked at Eccles Theatre, ran the Screenplay Cafe, and volunteered at Yarrow Theater — now known as The Park Theater.
Below, discover Strauss’ favorite memory as a volunteer, some of the friendships she’s made along the way, and her very relatable advice for new volunteers.
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Which teams have you been a part of as a volunteer for the Sundance Film Festival?
I was [part of the] Festival staff running the Screenplay Cafe. I drove artists and guests, I worked at Yarrow Theater, and I have been at Eccles [Theatre] forever, as well as year-round volunteering.
Describe your first time volunteering. What did it feel like stepping into that role?
When I first began volunteering, the Festival was tiny, comparatively speaking. The Institute was housed in the Crane building in Salt Lake City, Utah, and had a very small Festival staff. I worked directly with Nicole Guillemet [former co-director of the Sundance Film Festival] and Jill Miller [former managing director of Sundance Institute] and did some of everything.
Why do you think volunteers are so important to the Festival?
The Festival would not work without the volunteers. Not only do we do a ton of labor at almost zero cost, but we bring an energy and vibe that makes the Festival what it is.
Which has been your favorite Sundance Film Festival to volunteer at? Why?
I can’t say I have a favorite, but I loved running my venue. I created it, and I ran it until it was no longer being sponsored. Having screenwriters speak two times a day was awesome and the public loved it. I also really enjoyed driving, which I did for several years, and personally getting to know the artists involved. But being at The Eccles has been like being part of a family. Although things have changed a lot, it still feels like coming home.
Tell us one of your favorite memories volunteering at Sundance.
When I was driving, I was four months pregnant and not really showing. I had Morgan Spurlock (Super Size Me) in the car. [His film] was premiering, and I had to pull over so I could throw up. I explained the situation, and he was extremely understanding. I will never forget that.
What do you think the best part about being a Sundance Film Festival volunteer is?
All of it. And the jackets, of course.
Out of all the staff/volunteer jackets you’ve received, which one is your favorite?
The gap jean jacket, hands down.
Can you tell us about some of the friendships you’ve made at Sundance over the years?
There have been so many it’s hard to even count. But while I ran the Screenplay Cafe, I had the same staff year after year. And through The Eccles, I have continually worked with the same folks and new ones each year who become part of the family. Doing year-round volunteering has also given me a chance to get to know a lot of the other staff which has really been great, although it is hard when they leave.
What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned after volunteering at the Sundance Film Festival for so many years?
The people matter the most. So, be kind, and it will boomerang.
What’s your favorite movie to come out of Sundance?
I can’t even begin to choose. There are just too many, but the docs have left the biggest impression. I have learned so much about so many things I might never have been aware of.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a first-time volunteer at the Festival?
Relax. This is not life or death. Have fun and stay warm.
Check back regularly for more volunteer stories leading up to the Festival this January. And if you’re interested in joining the team, check out our volunteer opportunities here.
