The Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME) recognizes Big Chief as the November 2016 Location of the Month.
Big Chief is a New Orleans-themed bar and entertainment space located in Northeast DC’s Ivy City. Historically an industrial neighborhood, Ivy City is experiencing an exciting commercial and residential revitalization, boasting new retail, recreation, and creative live/work space development. This unique, centrally located venue adjacent to New York Avenue is a great location for interior filming and offers a distinct skyline view of Northeast DC from its rooftop. Big Chief, a former roofing supply building at 2002 Fenwick Street NE, was converted into an expansive, multipurpose space that includes several bar areas, demonstration areas, and spaces for live music and other performances.
The location has three bars spread out over 7,000 square feet, including one on the expansive rooftop where a 1970’s silver Airstream Travel Trailer rests with its original radio still intact. Big Chief’s main floor features unique architectural and artistic flourishes, including expansive Native American art murals and images of popular sports figures. Big Chief’s rooftop can accommodate up to 170 people and provides exceptional views of the District’s skyline, offering a unique artistic backdrop for commercial filming. With picnic tables and refurbished industrial wire spools converted into high top tables, Big Chief provides a one-of-a-kind look for any production.
Big Chief has already hosted several media productions in the space, including music videos, a weekly live music showcase featuring the Brass Connection Band, and a special event marking the finale of the Mayor Muriel Bowser Presents: 202Creates initiative. As Ivy City continues to transform the Northeast industrial corridor into a hot spot with its grouping of local distilleries, restaurants, retail, and residential space, Big Chief will establish itself as a go-to location for media production, special events, and other live performances. An on-site facility manager is available to answer any questions about the space, its features and any usage restrictions. To learn more about Big Chief and to view photos of the location, please visit the Location of the Month page on the OCTFME website. If you are interested in using Big Chief as a filming location, please contact us at [email protected].
