DIRECTOR’S BIO (also produced/co-shot/wrote):
First-time Director Sonya “Sonny” Tormoen knows people — she’s been casting unusual faces and characters as extras in Hollywood films for over 10 years — which is what led her to taking her first shot at directing the engaging and unforgettable characters of “The World’s Most Dangerous Polka Band.” She was wrangling an audience on Comedy Central’s “Let’s Bowl” and was struck with the impact the polka band (as the guest artist) had on the audience and the crew. It sparked a conversation which turned into the need to start shooting because of Al’s extreme age. Tormoen’s background began in Sports & Event Marketing with a Bachelor’s from George Washington University in Washington, DC and studies at NYU and abroad. She came to film via a chance to write a concept for a music video for Capitol Records — which shot in the sand dunes of Mexico. She studied film production and screenwriting at MCTC while working full-time on commercial and film productions doing everything from stunt driver to Director to Producer for numerous clients such as Spike TV, Best Buy, MTV, OLN, and others. Tormoen has another documentary (SAFE SPACE - feature DV), a work-in-progress about a renowned drama teacher who, among other things, helps gang members channel their anger and violence into plays instead of toward others.
EDITOR’S BIO:
Matt Ehling is a freelance director, producer, cameraperson, and editor. His work has been seen on PBS, MSNBC, Oprah, the IFC Channel, the Bravo Channel, and Australian television. He drinks at Nye’s on a regular basis.
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHER’S BIO:
Adam Olson, (MLS/ University of Minnesota, BFA/ MCAD) works as a cinematographer and has photographed short films, industrials, music videos and features. His collaborative work with Tormoen won a festival “Best Cinematography” for the war film “The Retreat.” Olson is part of the Adjunct Faculty for film, sound and photography courses for both Minneapolis College of Art & Design and Minneapolis Technical College.