The National Talent Academy Film & TV's Scéal to Set, An Irish Language mentoring and career development programme took place for directors and writers at the online and Mick Lally Theatre this month.
The programme, led by Irish director Dathaí Keane, brought together participants from diverse backgrounds who are eager to learn about and contribute to the development of Irish language cinema.
Four new writers and eight new & emerging directors were chosen to be part of ‘Scéal to Set'
Oisín Ó hEartáin, Barra Convery, Darragh O'Flanagan, Fiona Ashe, Daniel Butler, Cian Desmond, Traolach Risteárd Ó Murchú and Hilary Bowen-Walsh
Judy-Meg Ní Chinnéide, Jack Desmond, Dolapo Agunbiade and Seirce Mhac Conghail.
Dathaí, alongside editor John Murphy, script editor Molly O'Driscoll, and producer Siobhán Ní Ghadhra, all gave valuable and practical insights into the collaborative nature of filmmaking.
Participants had hands-on experience with Irish language actors and film crew on set, setting up shots and directing performances, allowing them to experience filming a short scene firsthand.
Before 'Scéal to Set' kicked off in-person, participants took part in a series of online talks featuring industry professionals. The talks featured the team behind An Cailín Ciúin, director Colm Bairéad, producer Cleona Ní Chrualaoí, and DOP Kate McCullough, as well as Costume Designer Triona Lillis, Production Designer Mark Kelly, and 1st AD Ger Duffy. They shared their expertise to broaden the participants' understanding of the Irish filmmaking landscape.
'Scéal to Set' wasn't just about acquiring skills; it was a chance to be part of a network dedicated to advancing the Irish language in the film industry. NTA Film & TV is a Screen Ireland, Initiative managed by Ardán. Scéal to Set is funded by NTA Film & TV, Ardán and Coimisiún na Meán.
The NTA Film & TV would like to thank Dathaí Keane, all industry speakers and the wider Irish language screen community for their time and support.