The Old Regal Cinema Comes Alive with Student Film Showcase

The historic Old Regal Cinema in Enniskillen was abuzz with excitement recently as South West College (SWC) Level 3 Media students captivated a full house during an eagerly anticipated event organised in conjunction with Experience Enniskillen. Drawing a crowd of 130 attendees, the students showcased an impressive array of documentaries and fictional films, leaving the audience both entertained and inspired.

Standing Ovation for Media Students at the Old Regal Cinema
A Standing Ovation for Media Students at the Old Regal Cinema on 7th June

The evening commenced with a warm welcome from Noelle McAloon, manager of Enniskillen's Business Improvement District (BID). In her opening remarks, McAloon expressed her pleasure in collaborating with such a talented group of students, highlighting the significance of nurturing local talent and providing them with platforms to shine."Working with these young, creative minds has been a truly rewarding experience," McAloon stated.

"Their passion and dedication to their craft are evident in every frame of their films. We are proud to support their journey and showcase their work to the community."

The main event featured a diverse collection of films produced by the talented media students. The showcase was a testament to the high level of training and mentorship provided by SWC, as well as the students' hard work and creativity.

A captive audience at the Old Regal Cinema
It's been a few years since the old Regal Cinema had such a captive audience

The event also provided an opportunity for attendees to engage with the filmmakers during a Q&A session, where students discussed their creative processes, the challenges they faced, and their aspirations for the future. This interactive element added a personal touch to the evening, fostering a sense of community and support for the budding filmmakers."We are incredibly proud of our students," said Ian Blackford, Media Lecturer at SWC.

"Their films reflect not only their technical proficiency but also their ability to tell stories that resonate with audiences. Events like this are crucial for their development as filmmakers and for the cultural enrichment of our community."

Experience Enniskillen, a local initiative aimed at promoting cultural and economic development in the area, played a pivotal role in organising the event.

Their collaboration with SWC underscores a shared commitment to fostering creativity and providing platforms for young talent to thrive. Also on show at the event was work by the Extended Diploma in Art & Design students.

As the evening drew to a close, the audience left the Old Regal Cinema with a renewed appreciation for the art of filmmaking and the promising future of these young creators. The success of the event highlighted the importance of community support for the arts and the positive impact it can have on both individual lives and the broader cultural landscape.

If your interested in or know somebody who wishes to pursue a career in the visual arts, take a look a what courses are open for application starting this September.