This evening event at the Studio in the Lexicon library, Dun Laoghaire will bring together experienced working writers and producers for an informal but informative session discussing Ireland's animation boom and what the future holds for this exciting cultural sector. As Ireland steadily cements its' reputation for being a world class centre for animation, what are the opportunities, possibilities and pitfalls ahead?
Hosted by the current writer in residence at the Lexicon, screenwriter James Phelan ('Wrecking the Rising'), the event was postponed from March due to adverse weather conditions. It will now take place on the evening of Thursday May 3rd. This event presents an opportunity to gain rare insight into the working lives and creative processes of animation professionals at the cutting edge of where traditional storytelling meets digital advancement.
Confirmed guests include Lena Byrne from JAM Media, Alan Keane from Hot Drop Films and the prolific animation screenwriter Mark Hodkinson whose credits include ‘Little Roy’, ‘Violet’ and ‘The School for Vampires’.
James hopes to add some personal insight to the discussion. Perhaps more closely associated with dramas like 'Wrecking the Rising', 'Galway Races' and 'Striking Out', James has steadily accumulated experience in animation in recent years. He is currently writing on the memorably titled 'Space Chickens in Space' and has also performed scripting duties on the hit kids show 'Oddbods'.
The theme of James' year long residency at the Lexicon is the Future. A fact reflected in not just this event but also in the creative work he has undertaken during the year. His feature length science fiction screenplay 'Memory Bank' will be presented as a table read at the Studio later in May.
James has also created a set of podcasts during his residency to cast light on his writing process. The writing of his short film 'Talking Trash' was used as a sample example of how a project is brought from original idea to final draft. The podcasts are available on the writer in residence's homepage on the DLR website.
http://www.dlrcoco.ie/en/arts/funding-opportunities/residencies/writer-residence
The animation event is being organised with the assistance of the DLR Arts Office and the Lexicon library staff.
Tickets are free but have to be applied for in advance.
https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/the-future-of-irish-animation-tickets-44882562954?aff=ehomecard