R44m boost for African screenwriters

A CAPE Town-based animation studio has launched an initiative to give African screenwriters and movie directors the opportunity to develop their ideas and feature on the global market.

Triggerfish Animation Studios has established The Triggerfish Story Lab, with the support of the Department of Trade and Industry (dti) and the US-based Walt Disney Company.

About R44 million will be invested to give Africa’s most talented storytellers and filmmakers the chance to develop their ideas alongside an international network of mentors.

Anthony Silverston, head of development at Triggerfish, said entries would be evaluated by a panel of both local and international experts, including Hollywood writer of The Lion King, Jonathan Roberts, script consultant Karl Iglesias, development executives from The Walt Disney Company, and South African storyteller Gcina Mhlope.

“We believe there is extraordinary talent in Africa and the Story Lab is the perfect way to partner with them. We are ready to bring a fresh voice to the world,” Silverston said.

Christine Service, senior vice-president and country manager of The Walt Disney Company Africa, said Story Lab would provide a unique opportunity to discover this continent’s next generation of storytellers.

“We are excited to be supporting Triggerfish on this innovative project,” Service said.

Silverson said the development process could take up to three years.

Triggerfish would provide financial support and workspace for each phase of development.

Triggerfish’s films, Adventures in Zambezia and Khumba, have been distributed in over 150 countries and dubbed into over 27 languages.

Applicants must be over 21 and either African citizens or permanent residents. Entries must be in English. Full guidelines and an online application form are available at www.triggerfishstudios.com