IFA Chicago to Honor ‘The Bear’ and Dewayne Perkins at Magic Hour Gala

The Independent Film Alliance (IFA) Chicago, the non-profit dedicated to providing the community, resources, and programs needed to build a diverse and sustainable industry of independent content creators, announces its annual Magic Hour Gala fundraiser to be held Thursday, December 5, 2024, at CineCity Studios in Chicago. 

Hosted by actor and comedian Antoine McKay (Chicago Med, South Side, Empire, All Happy Families) this year’s event will recognize the 21-time Emmy award winning series The Bear, with its Creative Vision Award. Both on screen and behind the scenes, The Bear captures Chicago’s spirit of resilience, creativity, and grit. IFA will celebrate the invaluable talent of Chicago’s local crew members, artisans, and professionals, who are vital to the show’s success and whose hard work has long defined our city’s film and television community. Accepting the award on behalf of the production are Emmy-winning Director of Photography Drew Wehde and Emmy-nominated Production Designer Merje Veski. 

IFA will also present its Breakthrough Voice Award to Emmy, NAACP Image, WGA, and GLAAD Award-nominated writer, comedian, and actor Dewayne Perkins (pictured top left). A Chicago native, Perkins has made waves as a groundbreaking voice in comedy, film, and television, celebrated for his distinct perspective and contributions to shows like The Amber Ruffin Show and Brooklyn Nine-Nine, as well as his recent starring role in the feature film The Blackening, which he also co-wrote. The Breakthrough Voice Award is given to an individual whose work demonstrates an exceptional level of creative quality and storytelling integrity that has broken-through onto the national film landscape. Perkins’ achievements reflect IFA’s mission to champion diverse and innovative voices that represent the city’s creative spirit. 

“Magic Hour is an extraordinary evening for our film and TV community, bringing together those who are committed to the transformative power of storytelling,” said Wesley Julian, Executive Director of IFA Chicago. “We are honored to celebrate The Bear, Dewayne Perkins, and the Chicago talent that drives our industry forward. Their contributions shine a spotlight on the richness and impact of our local creators.” 

Former award recipients include Governor JB Pritzker, CInespace Founder and former CEO Alex Pissios, and award winning filmmakers Minhal Baig and McKenzie Chinn. 

Magic Hour 2024 will include dinner, dancing, a unique silent auction, and the opportunity to network with industry professionals. All proceeds from the event will go to support IFA Chicago’s mission to build and strengthen the local filmmaking industry. Magic Hour will be held the evening of Thursday, December 5, 2024 at CineCity Studios, located at 2429 W 14th St, Chicago, IL 60608.

Tickets are available for both General Admission ($140) and VIP Access ($200). IFA Members have discounted tickets via the Member Portal. For more information on sponsorships or to purchase tickets, visit ifachicago.org/magichour.

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