Young people across Blyth were given the opportunity to step behind – and in front of – the camera this February half term, thanks to a creative partnership between Blyth Town Council and ACT 2 CAM .
For the third consecutive year, the popular Media Day returned to the Phoenix Theatre, offering children the chance to write, perform and produce their own short film – all in just one day.
Julie Summers of Blyth Town Council said the initiative has become a highlight of the February half term programme.
“Every year for the past three years we’ve run a Media Day during the February half term,” she explained. “The young people come along and make a film in a day. It’s fantastic to see.”
Participants are given a theme at the start of the day before splitting into groups to devise their own scenes. While each group interprets the theme differently, the final film is brought together into one unique production.
“It can be really interesting to see how one theme is taken in completely different directions,” Julie said. “When it all comes together, it might be a little bit random – but that’s part of the magic.”
Importantly, the event is open to all young people – not just those already confident in drama or performance.
“It’s not just for children who love acting,” Julie added. “It’s for anyone who wants to try something new, maybe something that feels a little bit scary at first. They work in small groups, make friends and really come out of their shells. Some might arrive quiet in the morning, but by the afternoon they’re full of confidence.”
At the end of the day, the completed film is shared with parents, giving families a lasting keepsake of the children’s creativity and hard work. While licensing restrictions prevent the film from being shared publicly, every family receives a copy to enjoy and share privately.
For Blyth Town Council, the Media Day is about more than filmmaking. It is also about opening up the theatre to young people who may never have experienced it before.
“This is the only ticketed-style creative event we run like this,” Julie explained. “We think it’s important that children get the chance to come into the theatre, especially those who might never have been here before. They get access to backstage areas, dressing rooms – they really get the run of the theatre. It makes the space feel welcoming rather than intimidating.”
Tanya Card, Production Coordinator at ACT 2 CAM, said inclusivity is at the heart of everything the organisation does.
“We work with young people to make films. We teach drama, filmmaking, art for film – we’re all about the creative arts,” she said. “We welcome children from all walks of life. In fact, we particularly want to reach those who think this isn’t for them – who think they’re not from the right background. In the creative arts, there is a role for everybody.”
Organising the day is no small task, involving careful coordination and logistics. But for Tanya and her team, the rewards far outweigh the hard work.
“Seeing the children’s faces at the end of the day, knowing they’ve loved it – that’s the best part. Many come back year after year. That’s how we know it’s making a difference.”
For many participants, taking part and seeing their work captured on film is a powerful experience – even if watching themselves back can sometimes feel daunting.
“Surprisingly, lots of young people don’t actually like watching themselves on screen,” Tanya added with a smile. “But they love being part of it – whether that’s behind the camera or in front of it.”
With creativity, confidence-building and community at its core, the February Media Day continues to shine a light on the talent and potential of Blyth’s young people – one film at a time.
Ends
Photo – The ACT 2 CAM team with some of the young participants (Highlights PR)
PR and Media keith@highlightspr.co.uk 07814 397951