KERRY FILM FESTIVAL BRINGING FILM APPRECIATION WORKSHOPS TO PRIMARY SCHOOLS

Kerry Film Festival bringing film appreciation workshops to primary schools

Kerry Film Festival is on the road, bringing a series of film appreciation workshops to primary schools across the county. The workshops which will run until the end of the school term, will give pupils an opportunity to view a selection of the winning short films from last year's Kerry Film Festival and award stars to their favourites. They will also be encouraged to consider various aspects of film-making and have the chance to design their own characters.

The free workshops have been tailored to suit primary school children from first to sixth class and are designed to encourage an enthusiasm for film. It's hoped that instilling a love of film as young as possible will inspire the next generation of Irish film makers and maintain Ireland's and Kerry's reputation as a hub of creativity and imagination.

"Ireland has always been known for its literary output and Kerry has produced more than its fair share. If Ireland can produce world class writers then there’s no reason on earth it can’t produce world class film makers", said Kerry Film Festival Director, Jason O' Mahony.

"If you listen to directors like Peter Jackson and Steven Spielberg they always say that their love of film making started when they were kids, and that’s exactly what we’re trying to engender - a love of film making in children. We want the next generation’s Spielberg to come from Kerry!"

Kerry Film Festival's Education Coordinator Edwina Neilan, says she has already had a great response from primary schools across the county. "It's been terrific to get such a good reaction to the education programme and I'd encourage all Kerry primary schools to get involved", she said.

For more information on Kerry Film Festival's education programme contact 066 7129934 or email edwina@kerryfilmfestival.com.