Deval Patrick to meet Hollywood execs to pitch soundstage

BOSTON - Gov. Deval Patrick plans to meet with Hollywood executives next week during a trip to California. Patrick says he’s meeting with representatives of three studios interested in building a soundstage in Massachusetts. Filmmaking has boomed in the state after lawmakers approved tax breaks for the industry. Lawmakers also are weighing legislation to extend tax credits to the construction of film studios. A group of entertainment executives hoping to build a studio in Plymouth has brokered a deal with the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to use the Hollywood sign to help promote the project. Patrick also is planning to travel to San Diego for a biotech conference hosted by a Washington-based industry trade group. The governor hopes to have signed a landmark $1 billion, 10-year life sciences bill by then. © Copyright 2008 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.