Take a look at Kelowna’s newest sound stage

A new film studio in the city promises to pave the way for bigger and better movies and commercials to be shot in Kelowna.

Kelowna Film Studios is the only sound stage currently operating in the city and for founder and creative director, James Alton, this has been years in the making.

“Ever since I moved to Kelowna from Toronto, I’ve known that Kelowna has needed a film studio, it’s the only thing filmmakers talk about,” Alton told Kelowna10. “I’m a person that likes to do things, I don’t like to just sit around and talk about it, so I found the right people and that’s how we’re here today.”

The 3,000-square-foot space features a variety of necessities for filmmakers, including 24/7 access, a green room for hair and makeup, a fixed lighting grid, a kitchen area, and three-phase power. It also has back lot access and a garage door for bringing in vehicles and other large objects.

“Kelowna has this unfortunate issue… where everyone goes to Vancouver because that is the mecca of filmmaking in Canada,” he explained. “We know there are so many talented people here in Kelowna, and we need to keep them here… we need something like this.”

During the grand opening party, there was a red carpet and photo backdrop leading to the front door. Inside, industry professionals checked out the new space while enjoying food and drinks. A DJ spun tracks and a smoke machine gave an authentic film look to the three sets set up inside.

“One of the best things about Kelowna Film Studios is that when you rent this space, it’s entirely yours,” Alton said. “We want everyone from Kelowna to use it… [and] the type of people would be short films, commercials, and movies.”

Although Alton couldn’t spill the tea on any names of who will be using the studio due to a non-disclosure agreement, he said big things are coming and he’s excited for Kelowna residents to see the projects once they’re complete.

“I love storytelling, conveying ideas, and having people change or reflect on their thoughts over the period of the experience of the film,” he said. “I’m just so thrilled to be here in the film industry… [and] my biggest push for this space is I want people to be able to afford their mortgage as a filmmaker while living in Kelowna.”

Kelowna Film Studios is located at 100-1516 Keehn Road.