The Clyde Theatre in Langley is sponsoring RainDance, a short-film festival, a digital film contest and South Whidbey’s version of the Sundance Film Festival.

“As movie people, we love seeing what can be done, now that so many people have access to traditional movie-making tools like animation and editing programs,” said Lynn Willeford, who owns The Clyde with her husband Blake.

“And since there’s never been a film component to the local arts festival, we thought it would be fun to showcase the work of our friends and neighbors on the big screen during Choochokam this year,” she said.

It’s an opportunity for all to see the best of the contest entries for free at The Clyde during Langley’s arts festival July 11 through 13.

The Clyde Digital Film Contest is open to any current resident of Whidbey Island, anyone who grew up on Whidbey Island or anyone who can make a good case for a strong connection to the Island.

Films must be short — preferably under 10 minutes — and in DVD format.

Information and applications

are available at The Clyde or

online by clicking on “Special Events” at The Clyde Web site at www.theclyde.net.

All entries must be turned in or mailed and received by June 1.

Amateur and professional filmmakers may submit as many entries as they wish, though each entry must be accompanied by a

$5 entry fee. Films must not contain language or material that would earn them an R rating.

A grand prize of $200 or a one-year pass to The Clyde will be awarded. Entries will be judged by a panel of experienced film professionals who live on South Whidbey.