Heather Waters has worked in several facets of the entertainment industry for over 20 years. She began her career in the performing arts arena as a commercial and film actress and singing lead and back-up vocals. From the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN at eleven to the Australian Music Festival at nineteen, Waters performed for audiences as intimate as 20 and as large as 20,000 across the globe.
In 2000, Waters shifted behind the camera to co-produce and direct Match Point Atlanta, leading to a new love for crafting story for the screen. Since then Waters has gone on to produce and direct several film projects.
When not at the directing or producing helm, Waters devotes her time to the development and advancement of other artists. In 2008, she joined forces with Marlene Neubauer to become co-founder of Creative World Awards, which provides writers with story and craft development. Throughout her time at CWA, Waters has been responsible for helping hundreds of writers develop material. After three years of founding CWA, it skyrocketed to one of the top international competitions, and now in its eighth year is considered a main go-to source for industry veterans seeking new material for the silver screen.
Waters founded the Richmond International Film Festival in 2011, which has become one of the largest international competitive film and music festivals in the mid-Atlantic. She is also President and Executive Director of the RIFF Arts Institute, which focuses on the development of artists, including filmmakers, musicians, and writers.
Through RIFF and her work as past President of the Virginia Production Alliance, Waters has placed a strong focus on growing indie film in the state and on fostering talent and strategic partnerships in the production community. In addition to RIFF bringing the traditional festival perks, it has become a key development platform for writers, filmmakers, and artists as it brings together talent and helps launch careers.
Some recent films she has produced or directed personally include Trading Ages, Stillwater Lake, and By the Grace of Bob.
