Kevin Costner autographed a fine art print featuring a likeness of him in a scence from Dances With Wolves. Patrons contributed $500-$1,000 for this autographed print (and a photo!).

2009 marks the 20th anniversary of the filming of the Academy Award winning film, Dances with Wolves. The filming of this motion picture in portions of South Dakota ignited the creation of the State Film Office, which is now under the department of South Dakota Tourism. To commemorate this anniversary, the Northern Route to the Black Hills Tourism Association invited Actor/Director Kevin Costner to the third annual South Dakota Film Festival to come share his perspective on the experience of making such an historic film as well as his interest in South Dakota and Native American culture.

The third annual film festival will featured over 30 films from around the country, a film-set demonstration, two afterglow parties and round table discussions. Participants are also encouraged to visit the Native American Cultural Center and Museum, which is the home of the Northern Route to the Black Hills Tourism Association.

Kevin spoke at the Opening Session, attended various parties and fundraisers, then participated in a filmmaker/student Discussion in the Round Saturday morning before moving on to an autograph session at the Native American Cultural Center and Museum and other appearances around the state.

Costner’s presence in Aberdeen will also assist in kicking off the Northern Route to the Black Hills; a tourist promotion to attract out of state visitors from I-90, I-29, Canada and Minnesota to travel and visit Highway 212 attractions. A destination on the tour will be Tatanka near Deadwood along with the rest of the Black Hills.

Festival Producer, Troy McQuillen and wife, Suzette were on hand for the autograph session.