State-of-the-Art Studio Opens in Lexington
A Step Closer to Becoming a Production Powerhouse Outside of LA, New York, and Atlanta
Fresh in the film and television production scene is Lexington, Kentucky’s LEX Studios, a massive 50,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art production facility filled with every facility feature a movie or television production company could possibly need. From studio spaces to greenrooms, soundstages, and screening areas, it now rivals the likes of its counterparts in Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York, or Chicago.
An Ambitious Goal to be the Go-To Facility
The aim of LEX Studios, according to owner Misdee Wrigley Miller and studio manager Tim Sabo, is to offer studio and logistical services, production facilities, and location support to production companies, filmmakers, and studios nationwide. Making it the top-of-mind option for film and TV production outside of the traditional production powerhouses.
An Alternative to Big City Productions
The newly opened studio stands in the former building of Woodhill Cinemas on Codell Drive, which has been vacant for a decade. “The building was scary but with a soundproof structure and 40-foot ceilings, we knew it’s the perfect spot. But we knew we had to do it right. When the film incentives were restarted, I thought, ‘This is it!'” Miller articulated her vision.
The renovation process included consulting specialists who’d previously constructed stages in California and the outcome – top-notch facilities that give productions an alternative to their accustomed locations.
Key Facility Features
The film and television production hub boasts nearly 30 office spaces. “We’ve designed LEX Studios with multi-tasking in mind, you can have your production manager and crew here, and also your art directors and wardrobe department,” Sabo pointed out. The facility also has dedicated high-speed internet to ensure seamless file transfers with video editing companies or special effects companies.
A One-Stop Shop
The LEX Studios is designed to offer much more than just filming location. Sabo emphasizes, “Our studio provides space for pre-production planning, filming, and screening all in one location.” Creating a convenient, all-in-one hub for filmmakers, LEX Studios is a key player in promoting Central Kentucky as a film location.
Beyond Production Spaces: Tax Incentives & Workforce Development
One of the added perks of LEX Studios’ location in Kentucky is the opportunity for production companies to utilize film and TV tax incentives. The Kentucky Entertainment Incentive (KEI) Program, under the Kentucky Department of Economic Development, provides significant tax credits for companies bringing film and TV projects to the state.
Moreover, there’s an underlying desire within LEX Studios to foster workforce development opportunities within the entertainment industry.
A Living Production Lab with Bootcamps and Experiential Learning
Sabo discussed the intent of launching comprehensive bootcamps to master every facet of film and television production. This includes collaborations with students from university film programs and the plan to run soup-to-nuts bootcamps. “We’re aiming to implement a hands-on approach, where participants get to work on a project, be it a pilot or short film specifically created not for profits but for teaching.”, said Sabo with a glimpse of excitement in his eyes.
Aiming High – Making Central Kentucky a Film and TV production Destination
The ultimate goal, as stated by Miller and Sabo, revolves around not just promoting LEX Studios, but the entire Central Kentucky as a hot hub for filming. And with the newly minted facilities, engaging initiatives, and the pure commitment towards pushing their home ground forward, they are well on their way.
