31/12/2023
Reflecting on the Magic of MTFF's Debut Year 🌟🎥
As we bid farewell to 2023, I feel a huge sense of gratitude and awe when looking back on the incredible journey that was the first Mansfield Town Film Festival.
It feels like just yesterday that I embarked on this cinematic adventure, and what a journey it has been!
In 2024 - our organisation is expanding and reorganising, it’s going to be exciting, and no doubt very stressful, but I’m proud to have the support of an incredible team within the organisation, and at Mansfield District Council and Arts Council England supporting this new journey!
I’d like to share a few of my key highlights from my first year as Festival Director.
🌈 Diverse Stories, Shared Moments:
From the outset, our dream was to create a space where diverse, working-class stories could shine, and Mansfield embraced it with open arms. Witnessing the power of these talents, international gems, and local narratives coming together was nothing short of magical. Each film became a thread, weaving a tapestry of connection and understanding.
🎭 Transforming Mansfield Palace Theatre:
A special mention goes to the Palace’s team who performed the incredible feat of transforming the historic Theatre back into a cinema, echoing its origins from 1910. The echoes of the past resonated through the theatre, bringing back the cinematic charm that graced Mansfield over a century ago. It was a nostalgic journey that added a unique touch to the festival, connecting the present to the rich cinematic history of Mansfield.
🎉 Opening Night with Ken Loach:
Who could forget the exhilarating buzz of opening night? The Mansfield Palace Theatre came alive, and we were so honoured to have Palme d'Or winner Ken Loach launch our inaugural festival. His presence marked the beginning of an unforgettable three-day celebration of film, community, and creativity.
👥 A Festival of Connection:
What truly made MTFF special was the sense of community that permeated every corner. The warmth in the air, the shared excitement in breakout sessions, and the spirited discussions – it all turned Mansfield into a lively hub of shared passion. It wasn't just a festival; it was a community coming together.
🏆 Applauding Extraordinary Talent:
The awards evening was a culmination of dedication, talent, and sheer love for storytelling. Applauding filmmakers who poured their hearts into their craft was a moment of pride for all of us. It echoed the success of MTFF and celebrated the profound impact of storytelling.
🙏 Special Thanks to Sian Booth and the Cultural Services Team:
I’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Sian Booth, Cultural Services Manager at Mansfield District Council. Sian, your belief in me and the opportunity you provided to bring MTFF to life played an invaluable role in the festival's success. Your support is the backbone of our cinematic journey, and we are immensely grateful for your vision, trust, and encouragement.
❤️ A Grateful Nod to the MTFF Team:
To my incredible MTFF team, your dedication and passion have been the driving force behind the festival's success. Each one of you played a vital role, contributing your unique talents to create an unforgettable experience.
🌟 Welcoming MTFF24:
Now, as we step into 2024, we carry the cherished memories of MTFF's debut success. The anticipation for MTFF24 is real, filled with excitement for more diverse stories, more incredible talents, and more moments that bind us together. It's not just a festival; it's a continuation of the beautiful narrative we've started together.
To every filmmaker, sponsor, volunteer, and the Mansfield community, thank you for making the first year of MTFF a triumph. Here's to the stories we've shared and the countless more waiting to unfold.
Happy New Year! Here’s to a 2024 filled with love, cinema, and endless possibilities! 🎉🍾
