Harry Potter director visits Swindon to inspire emerging talent

By Barrie Hudson - 25 November 2024

Arts and CultureEducationCommunity
  • David Yates, centre, at Create Studios

    David Yates, centre, at Create Studios

Filmmaker David Yates - best known for directing the Harry Potter series - returned to Create Studios for an evening of inspiration and celebration.

The event brought together aspiring filmmakers, industry professionals and the local community for a magical experience.

Kicking off the evening, Mr Yates delivered an intimate masterclass to a group of young filmmakers, sharing invaluable insights from his illustrious career. 

Covering everything from the creative process to navigating the industry, he captivated the audience with his wisdom and passion for storytelling.

One participant said: “Hearing David Yates speak about his journey was not only inspiring but also reaffirmed my own dreams as a filmmaker.”

The night also shone a spotlight on the winners of the prestigious Short Film Fund Award, a programme funded by David Yates’ 'Wychwood' production company and Create Studios to nurture emerging talent. 
The three winners - George Green, Daniel Granville, and Louis Hickford - debuted their award-winning short films, which were met with rapturous applause from the audience.
“It’s surreal to see my film celebrated in this way, and I’m incredibly grateful to David Yates, Yvonne Walcott  and Create Studios for believing in my vision,” said winner Louis Hickford.
As a special treat, Mr Yates also screened his own short film, RANK, offering attendees a rare glimpse into his early creative work.
The event concluded with a vibrant networking session, allowing attendees to connect with fellow filmmakers and industry professionals. The atmosphere buzzed with creativity and a shared appreciation for the art of storytelling.
Create Studios, a Community Interest Company, continues to champion diverse talent and reinvest in the next generation of creatives. 
It says that events such as this demonstrate the powerful impact of collaboration and mentorship in building a thriving creative community.
 

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