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Kevin Costner at 2009 Festival

If you missed the opening session of the third annual South Dakota Film Festival, you missed an amazing event. Three short docs set the tone for the evening with subject matter about our state’s heritage and Native American people. The last film came to life on stage with Native American’s from the film continuing a song being sung in the film on stage to a packed house of nearly 900. That then erupted into a fast-paced presentation of over a dozen different Native styles of dancing, drums and song. After that, Academy Award winner Kevin Costner took to the stage in an interview with SDPB’s Paul Guggenheimer.

Costner relived his experience in making Dances With Wolves 20 years ago in our great state. He was a classic entertainer and provided great insight to making the film, but also to his life, his celebrity and his passion for South Dakota. At the end of the interview he presented Northern State University with a commemorative announcement honoring Floyd Red Crow Westerman, an NSU alumn. Westerman was the Lakota chief in Dances With Wolves and had worked with Costner throughout their careers. Floyd passed away in 2007.
interview
Academy Award winner,  Kevin Costner on stage with South Dakota Public Broadcasting’s Paul Guggenheimer at  Dakota Film Festival. Nearly 900 attended the event.

Also on hand was Michael Spears who’s acting career began with Dances With Wolves, and SD Governor, Michael Rounds. Dr. James Smith, NSU President, was on hand to receive Westerman’s recognition.

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High school and College students were treated to discussion in the round with Costner on Saturday morning of the festival. Students enjoyed a Q and A and a few life lessons from the celeb.
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Paul Guggenheimer, Kevin Costner, and NSU President, Dr. James Smith commemorating NSU Alum, Floyd Red Crow Westerman.
Native American performers entertained the crowd with a modern, fast-paced dance demonstration
Native American performers entertained the crowd with a modern, fast-paced dance demonstration

Kevin Cosnter spent his

As the student film, Rise Above the Storm, ended performers in the movie appeared live on stage to finish their musical number.
As the student film, Rise Above the Storm, ended performers in the movie appeared live on stage to finish their musical number.

Saturday morning (Sept 19) speaking to 100
high school and college kids about the filmic arts and following your
passions.