This Sunday (July 12) from 9 AM - 8 PM Mirror Dog Productions (MDP), a new independent production company based in Michigan with an office in Los Angeles will hold "Dreamin' Big", a Hollywood Block Party focused on promoting Michigan made products,businesses, and charities and to give employment opportunities for Michiganders who are hoping to break into Michigan's film industry.

In addition to raising money for United Way of Southeast Michigan's Basic Needs family assistance program, through a silent auction fundraiser featuring "Experience Michigan" packages, the event will also allow potential cast and crew for MDP’s film "Fair Chase" to apply. Fair Chase is a romantic comedy with ties to Michigan history that is scheduled to begin filming in Michigan this fall.

MDP President Kim Marie is looking forward to the party and says that everything just came together with sponsors pitching in to provide Michigan food, wine and services for the benefit. She says that the event will also kick off the national Dreamin' Big contest that will allow one lucky aspiring actor to receive makeup and hair work, head shots, work with an acting coach and a role in the film! There will also be an opportunity for a 2nd prize winner to be part of the crew and a 3rd prize winner who will have all-access pass to see what happens behind the scenes on a movie production.

"Four years ago I started writing letters to the governor and even before the film incentives came through I was planning to move my business back to Michigan," Kim explained. "I think that our contest and production will help demonstrate that Michigan has the talent, technology and locations to support the development of an entertainment industry that can be part of a diversified economy."

Dreamin' Big will be held downtown on the northwest corner of Hall Road (M-59) and Van Dyke (M-53). It is located in western central Macomb County, 12 miles north of Detroit, and 11 miles east of Pontiac. Please visit the City of Utica's website for map and parking and check out Absolute Michigan's Film Page for more articles about the Michigan Film industry.