Stevenage is set to shine on the big screen with the Stevenage Short Film Screening Event, an exciting new initiative founded by Sarah Leigh (Inclusivity Films) and Andy Caley (Curiouser & Curiouser Pictures). This special event aims to bring independent films to the local community while highlighting talented filmmakers from underrepresented backgrounds who may face barriers entering the industry
Celebrating Local Filmmaking
The event was born out of a passion for supporting grassroots filmmaking and giving a platform to diverse voices from Stevenage and Hertfordshire. After putting out a call for submissions on social media, the organisers were thrilled by the response. They carefully selected a range of short films, including horror, animation, drama, and comedy, ensuring a varied and engaging lineup for audiences to enjoy.
An Accessible and Inclusive Venue
Choosing the Stevenage Community Arts Centre as the venue was an important decision. The organisers wanted a space that not only felt welcoming but was also fully accessible and supportive of their mission. The Arts Centre perfectly fits this vision, providing a community-focused setting where everyone can enjoy the magic of film.
Breaking Barriers in the Film Industry
For many aspiring filmmakers, the film industry can feel like a “closed shop”, with opportunities often difficult to access. This event aims to change that by proving that film screenings can be community-driven and inclusive, rather than just for a select few. The organisers hope to foster future collaborations within the local creative scene, inspiring new talent to take their first steps into filmmaking.
Spotlighting Stevenage’s Filmmakers
The screening will proudly feature local talent, with filmmakers from Stevenage and across Hertfordshire. The event is supported by the Hertfordshire Film Office and Hertfordshire Futures, and will even include an opening address from a Stevenage Borough Council representative. It’s a fantastic opportunity for attendees to see homegrown talent and gain inspiration for their own creative projects.
The Importance of Community Arts Events
Film has the power to bring people together, and this event is all about making the arts accessible to everyone. By keeping tickets free and ensuring that accessibility needs are met, the organisers are breaking down barriers and encouraging wider participation in the creative arts.
Councillor Loraine Rasatti from Stevenage Borough Council (the cabinet member for culture, leisure and wellbeing) will so also be in attendance at the event.
For those who leave the screening feeling inspired, there’s even more good news—the organisers hope this will be the first of many similar events. So if you’re a budding filmmaker, this could be your chance to submit a short film to a future screening!
How to Get Tickets
🎟 Tickets for the event are completely free! You can secure yours by visiting:
👉 Get Your Tickets Here
This is a fantastic opportunity to support local filmmakers, enjoy independent cinema, and be part of a growing creative community in Stevenage. Don’t miss out on this exciting celebration of film and talent! 🎬✨
