The Limerick City of Culture in partnership with Behind the Scenes, has announced the appointment of Ronan Cassidy to the role of Project Manager-Film Limerick.
This new position has been established to promote and encourage Limerick to realise its potential as a film producing hub. It also aims to develop a number of projects that form part of the legacy for Limerick in 2014 during its year as National City of Culture. Behind the Scenes now replaces the Film Pillar of Limerick City of Culture.
At the heart of the Film Limerick Project is a unique and exciting scheme to produce two short films using Limerick as a location. With a budget of €15,000 each the selected projects will be filmed later this year. This will facilitate the long term goal of encouraging both established and emerging film makers to come to Limerick.
Ronan Cassidy commented on his new role, stating: “I am deeply honoured to have been given the opportunity to take up the post of Project Manager -Film Limerick. Having been involved in various roles in the world of the arts, film and television production, I’m thrilled with this opportunity.
“I’m looking forward to working with the staff of the City of Culture and Behind the Scenes. I’m confident, in taking up this position that I will be able to contribute to the promotion of Limerick City, as a film making location and the development of the film industry locally.”
In collaboration with Behind the Scenes, Ronan will now be responsible for encouraging local and national filmmakers to tell their stories through the film scheme; developing an educational and training programme for emerging film makers; and promoting film culture throughout Limerick.
He will also support local film festivals, promote local films in international competition, and positioning Limerick as a location for international audio-visual productions by offering advice on locations, creative resources, as well as with technical assistance and financial incentives.
Simon McGuire, co-founder of Behind the Scenes, commented “We would like to congratulate Ronan on his appointment as Project Manager. Since its inception in 2011, Behind the Scenes has strived to promote film, TV and video production in Limerick and the Mid-West area.
”The Film Limerick Project presents a unique opportunity to cement Limerick as a film making hub of the Mid-West. We look forward to working closely with Ronan, City of Culture and the film makers to establish an enduring legacy for Limerick.”
Welcoming the announcement, Art and Culture Manager Sheila Deegan, said: “On behalf of the Limerick City of Culture I am delighted that someone of the calibre and experience of Ronan Cassidy has agreed to serve as Project Manager for Film Limerick. His challenge will be to oversee the selection and production of two short films. His long term objective will be to bring Limerick as a film location to the attention of Irish directors, writers, actors and producers which in turn will increase the employment potential of the local audio visual sector.”
For further information on this scheme, contact ronancassidy@behindthescenes.ie
