Port of Spain, 30th August, 2022: The Trinidad and Tobago Film Company Limited (FilmTT) was thrilled for the release of locally produced film content as a result of one of the winning scripts coming out of its Script to Screen Programme. Solange Plaza of JIS Productions Ltd, held the world premiere of her short film, ‘I Dream of Calypso’ at a Red-Carpet Gala at Central Bank Auditorium on the 29th August 2022.
The event took the attendees on a journey through time. Specially invited guests walked the red carpet and had the opportunity to interact with items, and artefacts in the 90’s Museum curated by the Brij Maharaj Auto & Heritage Museum. Guests were serenaded by the national instrument played by Tiajuana Hernandez and treated to several performances before the viewing of the film – most of which were Calypso which tied in with the theme of the film.
The 15-minute short tells the story of a shy young girl who dreams of singing calypso but must first gain the approval of her religious parents in order to do so. This film aims to showcase a slice of life in Trinidad and Tobago as we celebrate our 60th Independence Anniversary. Set in the 1990s, this comedy-drama is set to bring back nostalgia and memories of times past. ‘I Dream of Calypso” was written by Solange Plaza, directed by Joash Alexander and produced by Victoria Gour-Votor. The film stars Cayla Allen, Michelle Sylvester and Sean Daniel.
Speaking at the event were Ms. Dionne McNicol Stephenson, Chairman of FilmTT and Mr. Daren Lee Sing, Managing Director at WESN. “Today, as we are about to witness this dream come true, I am reminded, and remind us, “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” Our part in the journey to this day commenced in 2021 when Solange placed Second in our Script to Screen – Short Film Script Pitch Competition. Her willingness to do the work necessary enabled her to qualify for further investment and distribution opportunities through our 2022 Content Creation and Marketing programme, through which the short film we are about to see was produced and will be screened before audiences in Toronto, Canada at the Caribbean Tales Film Festival.” – Ms. McNicol Stephenson.
On Thursday 30th September 2021, FilmTT hosted its first-ever live show titled ‘The Pitch’ to reveal the winners from its Business of Film: Script to Screen Programme. Solange Plaza’s script for ‘I Dream of Calypso, was placed in the top three that were awarded developmental funding. The Script to Screen Programme was a FilmTT initiative that was brought to life with the support of partnering organizations Stage 32, exporTT and TTT. The Programme intended to position stakeholders at a greater advantage through access to business opportunities and professional growth. Local and international industry professionals facilitated the sessions which included practical components and funding incentives.
FilmTT is continuing to promote short-form content through its Film Content Creation and Marketing and sitcom episodic content through its Capacity Development & Content Creation Programmes.
For more information on the Business of Film: Script to Screen Programme, visit www.filmtt.co.tt/scriptworkshops.
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