About

Our Mission & History

o Mission

The Grandin Theatre Film Lab’s mission is to supplement education provided by area schools or to serve as a first exposure to the cinematic arts for students. We strive to prepare our local youth for future education, careers, and interests in the film, entertainment, and communications industries.

We aim to develop a continually improving model for molding the lives of youth as they grow not only as screenwriters, actors, directors, editors, and producers, but as contributing members of our society and visually informed citizens.

o History

The Grandin Theatre Film Lab program was launched in September 2016, but takes its inspiration back years prior. The program came into existence through a collaboration between Ian Fortier and several key program advisors. One-time Grandin Theatre projectionist Jason Garnett provided crucial technical consultation after having a similar idea during his tenure with the Grandin. Former Hollywood animation producer Joe Boucher contributed curriculum guidance. The program also gained support from many local academic institutions including Roanoke City Schools, North Cross School, Virginia Western Community College, Roanoke College, and Hollins University.

Film Lab Staff

Ian Fortier – Executive Director Ian Fortier is the Executive Director of the Grandin Theatre Foundation, and founder of the Grandin Theatre Film Lab. Since 2014, he and his diligent board of directors have worked to move the The Grandin from a sleepy neighborhood Theatre to a vibrant cultural community center and a national example for how art house cinemas should look.

Tyler Lyon – Program Director Tyler graduated with a degree in Film and Video Studies from George Mason University and has been working in the industry ever since. Working primarily in location sound recording, Tyler has worked on over 50 productions ranging from one-day corporate videos to five feature-length films. He’s worked in everything from short film to reality TV with clients including the Travel Channel, Amazon, Dell, Mazda, and more. He is a Roanoke Valley native and also has extensive experience volunteering with the youth at his church. He is excited to be leading a first-of-its-kind program in southwest Virginia.