Interview: Derek Sitter
A special behind-the-scenes moment from the production of our upcoming documentary Song of Sunset. Recently, we had the honor of filming a powerful and insightful interview with Derek Sitter, founder and former owner of Volcanic Theatre Pub in Bend, Oregon — one of the central venues featured in the film.
Derek’s presence in the Oregon arts scene runs deep. A veteran actor, writer, director, and producer, he has built a legacy of supporting independent voices in both performance and film. In 2012, he founded Volcanic Theatre Pub — not just a venue, but a creative hub that gave musicians, playwrights, and filmmakers a place to connect with their community. As part of Song of Sunset, Derek offered a rare window into the inspiration behind the venue and its evolution, shedding light on the importance of spaces like VTP for solo musicians carving out their paths.
Special thanks to HÚE, a beautiful and welcoming space in Bend that generously hosted our interview. HÚE is more than just a venue — it’s a nurturing environment where youth can grow through creativity, community, and connection. Their mission to provide mental health resources through creative engagement aligns seamlessly with the heart of Song of Sunset — a film about how music, community, and belonging transform lives.
About Derek Sitter
Derek hails from McAlester, Oklahoma, and holds an M.F.A. in Acting from Louisiana State University. He is a Life Member of The Actor’s Studio and has been part of SAG/AFTRA since 1995. Over his 30+ year career, Derek has worked across theatre, film, and television, before founding Volcanic Theatre Pub and later his production company, Smoking Mirror Productions/Born Into This Films. Today, he continues to write, direct, and perform in projects that challenge and inspire.
As Song of Sunset continues production, interviews like this deepen the film’s emotional resonance and historical depth — honoring the people and places that make Oregon’s creative spirit shine.
Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for supporting this journey.
