Hollywood Meets the Bayou: Film Louisiana to host “Louisiana Comes to Hollywood” to showcase state’s film industry

Written By Alicia Vial

BATON ROUGE, La. – Film Louisiana, in collaboration with the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, proudly announces “Louisiana Comes to Hollywood.” This landmark event, scheduled for Sept. 17 in Los Angeles, aims to highlight Louisiana’s unique and diverse filming locations, seasoned local crews and rich cultural heritage to industry leaders in Hollywood.

“As part of our ongoing efforts to promote Louisiana as a premier destination for film and television production, ‘Louisiana Comes to Hollywood’ will provide a platform for networking, collaboration and the exchange of ideas between Louisiana officials and industry leaders,” said Jason Waggenspack, President, Film Louisiana.

One of the event’s highlights will be a visual presentation showcasing Louisiana’s diverse landscapes, from its historic urban settings to scenic rural vistas. Attendees will also get a taste of Louisiana’s renowned hospitality, cuisine and music, helmed by the state’s Department of Tourism, providing a firsthand experience of the state’s vibrant culture. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with Louisiana’s economic development team, location scouts and local talent.

“We are thrilled to bring a piece of Louisiana to Hollywood and to demonstrate why our state is an ideal choice for film and television production,” Waggenspack added. “With our competitive incentive program, skilled workforce and unique locations, we believe Louisiana offers unparalleled opportunities for filmmakers.”

Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the economic and cultural benefits that film production brings to Louisiana.

“Not only do we have the infrastructure and a skilled workforce in the film industry, but we also know people travel to destinations where film and television shows are produced. Our rich culture and diverse filming locations make Louisiana the perfect destination to help tell these visual stories. By hosting this event, we hope to build lasting relationships with the film industry, continue to grow our film sector and boost our local economy,” said Lt. Gov. Nungesser.

Film Louisiana, formerly Louisiana Film Entertainment Association, is hosting the event after undergoing an innovative rebranding aimed at creating awareness of the film industry’s rich history in the state. Film Louisiana is committed to sustaining a thriving industry that keeps talent and tax money in-state, bolsters workforce development and puts a positive international spotlight on Louisiana.

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About Film Louisiana
Film is the driving force behind Louisiana’s leadership in the film industry. As a collective of passionate industry professionals, the organization champions the sustainability of the Louisiana film entertainment industry through preserving and enhancing the Film Program, supporting thousands of Louisianians in the film sector. Beyond advocacy, Film Louisiana promotes global interest and investment in the state as a premier film production destination.


Alicia Vial

Alicia Vial is a New Orleans native with more than a decade of experience elevating client stories and leading crisis response. As the senior director of strategy, Alicia acts as a leader within the Gambel Communications team ensuring each agency team member is positioned to deliver strategic public relations services that meet the highest standards of the industry. In addition to supporting the agency’s long-term business growth and development, she coordinates day-to-day account services and oversees strategic direction while staying abreast of best practices and industry trends to provide innovative solutions to meet client’s needs.

Before joining Gambel Communications, Alicia served as the communications director for the Louisiana SPCA, the oldest and largest animal welfare organization in Louisiana that impacts more than 74,000 animals per year. During her nearly eight-year tenure, Alicia oversaw numerous crises, served on national communication taskforces, oversaw all aspects of internal and external relations and worked alongside the development department to raise critical funding. Prior to that, she worked in the fast-paced New Orleans hospitality industry focusing on digital public relations for multiple hotels.

Alicia is a member of the Public Relations Association of Louisiana (PRAL), Southern Public Relations Federation (SPRF), a board member of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) New Orleans Chapter and a member of the New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute. An accredited public relations practitioner (APR), Alicia is also certified in crisis communications, organizational leadership, content marketing and social media.

A well respected and trusted public relations practitioner, Alicia has been recognized by SPRF as a ‘Senior Practitioner of the Year’. Dubbed early on in her career as one to watch, she also received the ‘Rising Star’ award by PRAL and was profiled in St. Charles Avenue Magazine as part of their Young Bloods series. Most recently, she was recognized at PRSA’s annual Fleurish Awards and received four Awards of Excellence for her work along with the ‘Plate Spinner’ award for her efforts on the board of directors for the chapter.

An LSU graduate, Alicia received a bachelor's degree in mass communications with a concentration in public relations and minors in business administration and leadership development. She is a frequent speaker and presenter on public relations topics, most recently presenting at the Jefferson Economic Development Commission and SPRF annual conference.

When Alicia is not at work, you can find her at the ballpark with her three boys or cheering on the Tigers in Death Valley.

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