Belfast Time Travellers take to the Stage
Belfast Harbour Hosts New Production by Local Charity
Over 60 young people have staged an original production at Belfast Harbour Office taking a look at Belfast’s past, present and future.
Developed by Northern Ireland-based charity, the Talent Tribe, and supported by Belfast Harbour, the production was written, performed and staged by local young people with the support of industry professionals such as Oscar-nominee Damon Quinn from the Hole in the Wall Gang and actor, Paddy Jenkins.
Talent Tribe provides young people hands-on learning opportunities in both behind-the-scenes technical skills and on-stage performance skills, from script writing to make-up, choreography and acting to screen technology. The production, entitled ‘Re-imaging Belfast’ was also performed in Stormont’s Long Gallery.
Fedelma Harkin, CEO of the Talent Tribe, said:
“In less than six months 60 young people with the support of industry professionals have created an original drama featuring music and dance, and a storyline which reads like ‘Back to the Future’ but with a black taxi instead of a DeLorean. Northern Ireland has a burgeoning film and TV production industry, but getting started in the business can be difficult. Talent Tribe works with young people, including many from areas of economic and social disadvantage, to open up new opportunities for them. With the support of partners such as Belfast Harbour and Arts & Business we can give young people both real industry skills and the self-confidence to fulfil their potential.”
Since it was founded in 2009 Talent Tribe has worked with thousands of young people, helping many, including a number who were previously homeless, secure careers ranging from script writing to make-up artists and acting.
Jenni Barkley, Belfast Harbour’s Communications & Corporate Responsibility Manager, said:
“Internationally acclaimed productions such as ‘Game of Thrones’ have put Northern Ireland’s film and TV sector on the global map, but there’s a need to encourage more people to look at career options within the industry. The creative industries are a major driver of wealth and employability because they provide job opportunities across the spectrum, from set and costume design right through to animation and merchandising. The Talent Tribe is helping identify and cultivate a new generation of talent to support the industry as well as inspiring individuals to look at new opportunities.”
‘Re-Imaging Belfast’, which features a character known as ‘Angry Steve Dolan’, a Belfast-based chat-show host, will also be turned into a broadcast quality film.
