The Strand Theatre will once again play host to the Manhattan Short Film Festival.

The screening of the 23^rd annual event begins Saturday at 7 p.m. at Martin’s At Midtown, 1101 Belmont St.

Daniel Boone, who is the programmer for the Strand Theatre, said the film festival is one of the most popular events hosted by the Strand.

“And it was important to us to get the films in front of our audience somehow or another,” Boone said.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the social distancing requirements, screening the festival inside the Strand was not an option, so Boone turned to Martin’s At Midtown.

“Martin’s has worked with us over the years to make Manhattan Short a true event here in Vicksburg, so it seemed only natural to partner with them on finding a way to present the films during these unusual times,” Boone said.

For those interested in attending, patrons will be asked to purchase a table for the evening.

The cost is $160 for a table of four and includes heavy hors d’oeuvres donated by local restaurants, adult beverages and the opportunity to vote for your favorite film.

To reserve a table, text “Shorts” to 601-618-4755.

Pre-payment of the full table price will be required to secure the reservation.

The 2020 Manhattan Short Film Festival received 971 entries from 54 countries. Nine finalists were selected, all hailing from nine different countries.

With the final nine films screening simultaneously across the world during a one-month period, Boone said, the Best Film and Best Actor awards will be determined by ballots cast by the audiences in each participating venue.

This will be the seventh year the Strand has hosted the film festival and while in years past single showings of films have sold out, because this year’s limited seating Boone said if there is enough interest he will consider repeating the program.

All proceeds from Saturday’s event will go to Manhattan Short and support the continuation of the Strand Theatre.

For more information, and or to view the Manhattan Short Film Festival trailer, visit fb.com/WestsideTheatreFoundation.