Octagenarian film makers from Islington Council's Alsen Day Centre are bringing together the memories and unsung artistic talents of the Borough's older generation in a unique way.
The 'Portraits' workshop sees over a dozen day care users script, film and edit their own stories over the next three months.
The final film will be 'premiered' at a gala screening at Islington Town Hall on 29 September as a prelude to National Older People's Day on 1 October.
Cllr Ursula Woolley, Islington Council's Executive Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said:
"Talking to older people in Islington you quickly learn their lives are rich in memories brought from all four corners of the world.
"Now they are capturing these experiences for the first time on film for others to learn and enjoy.
"They're doing all the interviews and filming themselves; older people don't often get a chance to shape the recording of local history in this way.
"This is a really impressive project and I can't wait to see the final version."
Big Up Films is behind the project, helping older people make a short film about their own lives as well as making a documentary on the Alsen Day Centre.
Sheena Callender from Big Up Films said: "Participants have been sharing stories on their childhood and early life and have fascinating tales to tell.
"We've been really impressed at how they've risen to the challenge of mastering interview, sound and camera techniques."
'Portraits' is sponsored by The Bridge House Trust and Age Concern.
September's 'Oscars-style' screening ceremony sees 'Golden Oldie' contributors put on their posh frocks and dickey bows for an awards show with a difference.
A special VIP guest will hand out a variety of awards including best actress, best script, best director and best camerawork.
ENDS
Note:
W: bigupfilms.co.uk
T: 020 7733 3247
Page Last Updated: 12 June 2009