This past summer, BHSU communications faculty, along with two BHSU students, created
the film project “Chasing Tables”. The 45-minute film showcases Jordan Taylor, a chef
based in Sioux Falls.
The faculty members that developed the film include Dr. Justin Bergh, assistant professor
of communications and media, Skott Chandler, associate professor of mass communications,
and Allen Morris, assistant professor of mass communications. BHSU students Alec Butterfield
and Alex Larson also contributed to the project.
“Jordan’s a really charismatic and an interesting guy, and that’s one of the reasons
I chose him for the film,” said Dr. Bergh. Taylor, originally an economics major at
college, decided to go to culinary school after moving to Portland, Oregon. Now having
returned to South Dakota, he is the co-owner of several businesses in Sioux Falls:
Bread & Circus Sandwich Kitchen, Pizza Cheeks, Perch, and En Place Catering. Taylor
is also co-owner of Boat House Bar and Grill in Spring Creek near Pierre.
“The film also showcases what it takes to do a job that’s very behind-the-scenes like
a chef,” said Chandler. “It shows the skill, artistry, dedication, and time it took
to get to the level of craft that he has and that he puts into his food. I think that
it gives people more appreciation for any food they’re looking at.”
One of Bergh’s motivations for creating the film was to recognize the people of South
Dakota. “A lot of times South Dakota is sort of looked down upon like there's no culture
or people and that there's nothing to do,” added Dr. Bergh. “For me, part of the inspiration
was highlighting people in the state who we should be proud of.”
Another goal of the project was to offer experience to BHSU students. “Having projects
like this is great for our department and our students. We want to create avenues
for our students to get real practical experience in a setting that is conducive to
creative freedom,” said Dr. Bergh. “We would like to encourage students that have
an interest in filmmaking.”
“Chasing Tables” will be shown at The Matthews Opera House & Arts Center in Spearfish
Thursday, Jan. 16 at 7 p.m., with doors opening at 6 p.m. The showing is free, and
seats can be reserved at SDPB.TicketBud.com. The film will also premiere Feb. 6 at
7 p.m. MT on South Dakota Public Television.