Local entry into global industry

THE NEXT FILMMAKERS: Fifteen students participated in Rāngai's introduction to filmmaking course. The students are pictured at the Rāngai studio with staff (far left) Rāngai studio manager Tom Paton, Rāngai founder Shannon Dowsing and (front left kneeling) tutor Jol Sparks. Picture supplied

For the first time, people living in Tairāwhiti have the chance to get training, qualifications and work in the film industry.

Work on the programme started two and a half years ago and the first course kicked off last month.

Rāngai, started by businessman and Gisborne district councillor Shannon Dowsing, has partnered with EIT Tairāwhiti to present the introduction course followed next year by the New Zealand Diploma in Screen Production level five.

The one-year (34 week) project-based programme is designed for people wanting to get craft skills and knowledge required to work in the screen industry.

Mr Dowsing says the three-day taster course was a huge success.

Fifteen students participated, and all enjoyed the creative experience and are looking forward to the full course in 2022.

“We have seen some incredible talent in different forms.

“Many of these students are already invested in exploring film production as a future career.”

Mr Dowsing and studio manager Tom Paton have been busy over the past six months fitting out a building in Gladstone Road to be a studio.

In the block by the clock, the former shop has been completely renovated and now features a massive green sloping wall, a control room, and post production areas.

The programme has been designed to give a hands-on experience with professional camera, sound and editing equipment.

Mr Dowsing says the skills take students into the global industry.

“You can travel and work globally and bring global to Tairāwhiti.

“Technology has advanced in virtual production — no longer do you need to go on location — essentially you can do it all in a studio.”

Rāngai has the backing of Trust Tairāwhiti, with a $225,000 loan to get the start-up going.

The practical part of the course will be based at Rāngai and the theory component at EIT Tairāwhiti IDEAschool.

An added attraction is the commitment of Rāngai to employ every student for 10 hours a week working on real productions for Rāngai parent company United Kingdom-based Target 3D.

Rāngai also helps students to create a professional portfolio offering a recruitment service on graduation.

Mr Dowsing says there is a variety of work for people after the course.

“The knowledge extends into multiple pathways.”

On a personal level, people can use the skills for a voice.

“You can say something and say it to the world.”

The course starts in February and to enrol or for more information go to the EIT Tairāwhiti website or call into the main office in Palmerston Road.