(IN SHORT) Natasha P. Olguin has been appointed Deputy Commissioner of DCASE’s Chicago Film Office. A North Lawndale native, she brings over two decades of film and television production expertise. In her new role, Olguin will lead policy creation, production assistance, workforce growth, and partnerships to bolster an inclusive media economy in Chicago. Her credits include major features and series like The Dark Knight, Contagion, and Empire. As founder of Noisemakers Entertainment and former CEO of Production Rentals Chicago, she’s worked with leading studios and guilds. Olguin also headed the BIGG Hearted Foundation, providing scholarships, and holds a B.A. from the University of Illinois.
(PRESS RELEASE) CHICAGO, 2025-Jun-10 — /Travel PR News/ — The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), led by Commissioner Clinée Hedspeth, is delighted to welcome Natasha P. Olguin as Deputy Commissioner of the DCASE Chicago Film Office. Hailing from Chicago’s North Lawndale on the West Side, Olguin brings more than 20 years of distinguished experience across film production and leadership roles.
In her new capacity, Olguin will champion the continued expansion of Chicago’s vibrant film and media ecosystem. She’ll shape policies, enhance production services, cultivate workforce development, and forge strategic partnerships that drive an equitable, long-lasting media-production economy. Her elevation marks a dynamic chapter for creativity, inclusion, and economic growth within Chicago’s cultural landscape.
“Natasha’s trailblazing career and deep commitment to community development make her the perfect fit to elevate Chicago’s standing as a premier creative hub,” said Commissioner Hedspeth. “Her entrepreneurial insight will help us celebrate the rich tapestry of our neighborhoods as cinematic canvases.”
A seasoned producer, location manager, writer, and director, Olguin has contributed to acclaimed projects including The Dark Knight, Contagion, Man of Steel, Empire, 61st Street, The Chi, Ironheart, and Heist 88. She’s an active member of IATSE Local 476, the Producers Guild of America, and the Directors Guild of America.
As the founder and CEO of Noisemakers Entertainment and former CEO of Production Rentals Chicago, Olguin has managed productions for major studios—Warner Bros., Marvel Studios, Paramount, 20th Century Studios, Universal, Amazon, HBO, and more. Her previous roles range from location scout to assistant location manager for top-tier film and television companies.
Beyond her industry achievements, Olguin served as President of the BIGG Hearted Foundation, offering educational scholarships to aspiring students. She holds a B.A. in Speech and Communications with a minor in African American Studies from the University of Illinois, and further refined her screenwriting through the Independent Screenwriters Group and ScreenwritingU.
DCASE Communications
dcasepr@cityofchicago.org
SOURCE: Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events
