Sean Connery Talent Lab Hosts Spectacular Curtain-Raiser to Welcome First Cohort
NFTS Scotland recently hosted a vibrant Curtain-Raiser event at the Everyman Cinema in Edinburgh, marking the official welcome of the inaugural cohort of The Sean Connery Talent Lab. This ground-breaking initiative, designed to nurture emerging filmmaking talent, saw high attendance from a host of industry professionals, mentors, and supporters.
The inaugural cohort of the Sean Connery Talent Lab with Holly Gordon, Natasha Connery, Jason Connery, Fiona Connery and Chris Young.
The event commenced with a lively reception, where attendees mingled and networked with the 26 participants consisting of writers, directors, producers and cinematographers, setting the tone for an engaging and insightful afternoon. Alison Goring, Head of NFTS Scotland, expressed her excitement and optimism, commenting; "We are thrilled to welcome our 2024 cohort and are excited about the journey ahead. The Talent Lab is committed to fostering new voices in filmmaking, and the enthusiasm and talent of our participants is inspiring."
The event offered a unique opportunity for attendees to meet and engage directly with the Sean Connery Talent Lab filmmakers, a diverse group who embarked on their creative journeys with the Lab in April. A specially created reel was showcased, providing attendees a glimpse into the unique perspectives and stories these talented individuals bring to the table and illustrated the breadth of talent on display in Scotland.
Insights were also shared by NFTS Director Jon Wardle, Talent Lab Head Chris Young, and Ambassador of the Sean Connery Foundation, Jason Connery, enhancing the afternoon with their expertise and experiences.
Holly Gordon, Founding Executive Director of the Sean Connery Foundation, hosted an enriching panel discussion featuring Isabel Davies from Screen Scotland, Andy Harries from Left Bank Pictures, and Kristin Irving from BBC Film. The panellists shared their experiences, offered invaluable advice and provided insightful discussions on the importance of nurturing new talent.
Event images and an introduction to each of the participants are now available, offering a chance to relive the highlights and get acquainted with the new cohort.
Looking ahead, the Talent Lab looks forward to a showcase event in 2025, where the six debut films of the first cohort will premiere. Applications for the 2025 intake of the Sean Connery Talent Lab open in September. Aspiring filmmakers keen to apply can now sign up to receive updates by emailing scftalentlab@nfts.co.uk.
The Sean Connery Talent Lab extends a huge thank you to all our supporters for their continued dedication and is excited to see what the next few months holds. Stay tuned to the NFTS website and social media channels for further regular updates on this remarkable journey!