The Community Partner for Moonlight and Magnolias at Third Avenue PlayWorks in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, is Amphibious Movie / Green Bay Film. A portion of the proceeds from the Pay-What-You-Will performance on June 3rd will go towards our Community Partner. There will be a donation box in the lobby during the run of Moonlight and Magnolias, June 3rd through 21, 2026. Those interested in attending the preview to support this organization, may arrive as early as 6:30 p.m. on the evening of the performance for general admission seating. Space is available on a first come, first served basis. Donations may be made in cash or with checks made out to Third Avenue PlayWorks. Half of the proceeds will benefit this show’s Community Partner.
What is the mission of Amphibious Movie / Green Bay Film?
The mission of Film Green Bay INC. is to provide a rich cultural experience for our community and visitors while promoting Green Bay as a hub for filmmaking and film appreciation.
“Amphibious: The Legend of Edgar Allen Long-Sleeves” is the story of a struggling high school freshman, Edgar Allen, born with Syndactyly (webbed fingers and toes). When his condition is discovered, he is bullied by some, but caring school staff offer him skills to adapt. The competitive swim coach helps him discover his gift is in the water, and soon he is smashing school records. The school and community start celebrating the very thing that made him feel isolated, and Edgar uses his influence to change how people treat one another.
What are some of the main programs or services offered by Amphibious Movie / Green Bay Film?
Film Green Bay, INC. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit bringing filmmaking into NE Wisconsin benefitting artists, businesses and the community. The organization exists as a resource for organization, grant-writing, entertainment legal advice and more. Through the Donor’s Choice program, companies and individuals can make tax deductible donations to the specific film of their choosing. In 2024, Film Green Bay became the Fiscal Sponsor of “Amphibious.”
Film Green Bay is also the parent organization of the Green Bay Film Festival. Not only does the festival offer the big screen to showcase independent film works, they provide a venue for film professionals to network, introduce new projects, and initiate future collaborations.
Can you share a meaningful or inspiring story from the past year highlighting your work?
The original “Amphibious” screenplay was born out of the tragic, back-to-back suicides of two teens at Mishicot High School. In previous years, writer/producer Kurt Krauss and actor friend Zachary Lulloff led an actors’ workshop for the school’s theater students. It was in Krauss’ heart to create a project that helped young people see how they viewed themselves and how their lives positively impact those around them. Story is powerful, and through filmmaking, has the endless potential to reach viewers.
Some of the very meaningful work our “Amphibious” pre-production team has had the privilege of being a part of is in collaboration with the Franki Moscato Foundation in teen suicide awareness and prevention. Moscato is a singer/songwriter, American Idol contestant, and actress who uses her platform to help struggling teens and their families. In 2025, the foundation launched a student .60 Second PSA Challenge for grades 6-12, where students could create a short film story addressing mental health. The winning PSA was professionally produced, and will air on WBAY-TV 2 (ABC Affiliate) and WMTV-15 (NBC Affiliate). To help with the technical and script-writing sides, Krauss and his team created an educational series of short film tutorials for first-time filmmakers.
Krauss and Moscato have worked together on multiple endeavors including collaborating on Moscato’s 2021 anti-suicide TV PSA and co-starring in feature film “Through Eyes of Grace” (post-production). Moscato also cameos in Krauss’ recent short film adaptation of Stephen King’s “The Last Rung on the Ladder,” which addresses mental illness and emotional impact on family. Moscato is also slated for a supporting role in the upcoming production of “Amphibious.”
What are some of the challenges Amphibious Movie / Green Bay Film faces in carrying out its mission, and how are they addressed?
A challenge for any independent film is securing funding to get the project “Green Lit” to move forward on production. Through Film Green Bay’s Donor’s Choice program, companies and individuals can donate to the specific film of their choosing. All donations to the “Amphibious” movie through the non-profit are tax deductible.
Looking ahead, what are some of Amphibious Movie / Green Bay Film’s goals or priorities for the future?
Using a successful model for independent filmmaking in NE Wisconsin, the pre-production team plans for a theatrical release of “Amphibious,” DVD distribution, and live on streaming services as well. In following years, after establishing a sustainable system, the team wishes to continue creating quality film/TV and online content that inspires and encourages audiences everywhere.
What is the best way for the community to support these efforts?
The best way the community can help our production meet our production budget goal of $300,000.00 is through donating to our “Amphibious” film through Film Green Bay, INC. or becoming an investor. Both donors and investors can be businesses or individuals. Donations are tax deductible. Interested potential investors can have a sit down meeting with director Michael Sajbel DGA, writer/producer Kurt Krauss, and pre-production team to discuss investing options.