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| Premier for film created by Northern Ireland's young deaf people |
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| The premier screening of Murder on the Manor, a short film produced by a group of talented young deaf people from Northern Ireland, was held on Saturday 20 October 2007 at the Storm Cinemas, Belfast. |
| The National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS), First Light Movies and BBC Blast NI brought the group together to work with film professionals to create their own movie last August.
The 13 deaf teenagers between the ages of 13-19 learnt filmmaking skills including directing, script writing, acting for the camera, and costume and make-up design. Storyboards were sent to applicants who were then chosen on the strength of their explanations about why they were passionate about film and what particular interests they have in the industry. |
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| First Light Movies funded ten 13-18 year olds while BBC Blast NI funded four 19 year olds to take part this year. The project has been running for three years, but this allowed for a much bigger cast than usual to take part, offering the opportunity to more young deaf people.
Stacey McStay, NDCS NI Arts Officer explains:
“The young deaf people working with BBC Blast were involved at every stage including acting, directing, making camera shots and editing material from the week. The exciting project allowed young deaf people to come together and gain hands-on experience in a specialised industry, giving participants a taster in film production and maybe a foot in the door to their desired career.
Arts projects like this are crucial for young deaf people as deafness makes it harder for them to communicate, which can be very isolating. The young deaf people involved had a chance to meet people with similar interests as well as gaining a whole range of new skills.”
Grainne Murphy (15) who is at school at Sacred Heart Grammar School in Newry, County Down, was the only one from the SELB area. She said: “It was probably the best time of my life. It was a once in a life time opportunity for me and I have learnt so much from it.” It was Grainne’s story that was chosen to be produced.
The Sensory Advice and Support Service is delighted with this achievement and offers Grainne their congratulations. |
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