Port of Spain, 9th September 2022: The Trinidad and Tobago Film Company Limited (FilmTT) is thrilled to announce that two shorts from the Script to Screen Programme made their Canadian premiere at the CaribbeanTales International Film Festival (CTFF). ‘I Dream of Calypso’ and ‘Skyglow’ were screened at the Carlton Cinema in Toronto on September 8th for the Sweet T&T 60th Anniversary night.
FilmTT partnered with CTFF and the Consulate of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago in Toronto to celebrate T&T’s 60th anniversary of independence by showcasing Trinidad and Tobago filmmakers. The feature film, ‘Lavway: Our Story’, directed by Ryan Gibbons, is a visually and musically rich cultural depiction of Traditions in Trinidad Carnival. Following the feature film, was the Canadian premiere of ‘I Dream of Calypso’ and the world premiere of ‘Skyglow’.
‘I Dream of Calypso” 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. It 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. “Working on this project has been one of the most challenging experiences in my life, I have never done a period piece before but I must say it was very fun. Loved working with the team of first-time actors and we had an excellent crew!” – Solange Plaza.
‘Skyglow’ is a Sci-Fi short that tells the story of Judah. When his first love, Ellie, goes missing, Judah, a bullied youth, must confront his past and unlock new power to find her before it’s too late. The film was written and directed by Kyron Jeffers and produced by Leanda Taitt. “The story of “Skyglow” is designed to create breadcrumbs and bridges to solve social problems. This franchise will explore the mysteries in our hearts that hinder the fulfilment of our dreams. Skyglow’s mission is to empower a new generation of leaders using creative entrepreneurship.” – Kyron Jeffers.
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’ and Kyron Jeffers’ ‘Skyglow’ placed in the top six scripts that were awarded production funding. Solange Plaza also received developmental funding for being in the top three. The Script to Screen Programme is 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.
“We are excited to see these short films on the big screen after starting as an idea in the minds of the writers at the beginning of FilmTT’s Script to Screen Programme. We will continue to support and facilitate these types of programmes and opportunities for the betterment of the local film industry.” – Leslie Ann Wills-Caton, General Manager, FilmTT.
For more information on the Business of Film: Script to Screen Programme, visit www.filmtt.co.tt/scriptworkshops. To view the shorts online at CaribbeanTales International Film Festival, visit www.caribbeantalesfestival.com.
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