24/1/10

It’s a wrap for NCDT Actor Training Weekend!

Launched with a high profile Q&A with John Hurt and Richard Kwietniowski, the NCDT and SSAW Film Actor Training weekend workshop started on a high, and the same energy and excitement continued right through to the final film scene shot on Sunday evening.

Following the Friday evening launch, 24 actors selected from the UK’s leading drama schools were put through an intense day of practical workshops, including scene and character development, in preparation for the 35mm film shoot taking place at the Norwegian Church on Sunday.

The film shoot was directed by Richard Kwietniowski, whose long-standing involvement with SSAW made him the ideal choice for directing trainee actors and crew. Support from members of the SSAW Industry Panel was equally important to the success of the weekend.

Alongside the trainee actors, a group of 15 students and graduates from SSAW were given the opportunity to work under director Kwietniowski, taking up a range of production roles from trainee ADs to electrician’s assistant. Here’s what our budding film-makers made of the experience...

Amy Bridle, (CCI) BA Film & Video graduate took on the role of trainee 3rd AD:

"There was a good amount of support and mentoring from SSAW staff, the third AD and especially the 1st AD, who was very encouraging and approachable. I learned more about the responsibility of 3rd AD in ensuring that you know where artists and sometimes crew members are at all times. The placement has taught me a lot about managing people’s expectations when shooting on 35mm, and understanding that the weather is a changeable factor.  I also learned more about the radio language used for all to understand.

"I really enjoyed being part of a professional 35mm shoot, having the opportunity to share experiences with other new entrants and to work with very approachable professionals who I respect and look up to. If this is an insight into what the industry is really like then I have chosen the right road.”

Nia Morgan, Media and Performace (CCI) took on the role of continuity trainee:

"This was the first time I have worked on 35mm film. This meant I had to log different notes from the camera department that I haven’t needed to in the past. It’s great that I now know what information is needed for the editor when working with 35mm. I learnt so many little things from working with such an experienced crew. I also found the Q & A session after the shoot very helpful."

Mark Holownia, MA Producing (CCI) took on the role of electrician’s assistant:
“Every shoot is different and it is great experience to see how the Gaffer goes about each set-up. Unfortunately there were only two set-ups on this shoot but the fading light compensation was good experience.”

A special thank you to SSAW Industry Panel members Alan Trow and Eryl Phillips who contributed enormously to the planning of this ambitious project. And on behalf of SSAW and the NCDT, we wish to thank everyone else who helped to make this event a fantastic success!