24:7 Media Launch at The Comedy Store Manchester

The 11th June saw the eagerly anticipated Media Launch at The Comedy Store Manchester. As the festivals Videographer I was lucky enough to have fantastic view from the back, along with lovely photographers from Act 111, and set to record the evening of live and filmed trailers from the ten plays to be shown at this year’s festival. The line up included two live performances from In My Bed and Three Women, a harrowing multimedia trailer from To the Dam and a diverse range of filmed trailers. Although potentially bias, due to having helped produce a number of the trailers, I was astounded by the sheer professionalism of the excerpts. In just 90 seconds each one had managed to encompass a real feel for each play and left me wondering how I would be able to fit in a proper viewing with all of the plays amongst my week of filming.

From the delightfully dark, animated trailer for the family friendly show Tongue Twister to the hilarious bathroom scene for Vera Dymond this is a festival that really does have something for everyone and I couldn’t help but be impressed by the sheer range of shows. Pass brought us drama while Afterglow produced a heartwarming snapshot of the ups and downs of modern day relationships. Box of Tricks and Anonymity offered us an almost cinematic experience, leaving the audience dying to know more.

The launch was also a really good opportunity to celebrate the festivals outstanding achievements to date, having shown over 150 debut acts and reached an audience of over 33,000 people in its ten year run. With great speeches from Annika Edge, David Slack and Graham Southall there was a definite sense of the support network 24:7 creates something which is a real honor to be part of.

After the event myself and fellow FITD participant Georgie Sykes had the opportunity to interview a whole host of interesting people. There was a definite buzz and excitement not only for the shows but also the extra events and opportunities 24:7 creates. Kevin Bourke, from the Manchester Theatre Awards, summed it up perfectly ‘New talent from Manchester, being shown in Manchester, what could be better that that?!’

Kevin, I couldn’t agree more, the 24:7 Festival not only showcases but truly nurtures and supports new talent, taking it further than being simply a festival. Talking to the writers, directors, actors and theatre makers from the various plays made it clear how much 247 actually does to help support emerging talent and I can only say how glad I am to be a part of such a brilliant team.

Sophie – June 2014