EMERGING FILMMAKERS DAY SHOWS STUDENTS OPPORTUNITIES IN SASKATCHEWAN

Students from all across Saskatchewan descended on the Yorkton Short Film and Video Festival today as part of Emerging Filmmakers Day. The students were greeted by Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Glenn Hagel.

"It is always exciting to meet with Saskatchewan youth," Hagel said. "With production volumes in the film industry doubling to $65 million annually since the 2002 opening of the Canada-Saskatchewan Production Studios, our film and video industry is booming and this is translating into exciting opportunities for youth to tell their own stories."

Students attending Emerging Filmmakers Day will not only learn about filmmaking but will spend the day making films of their own. The festival's Emerging Filmmakers Day will additionally play host to students from the University of Regina's Media Production & Studies Department and other special guests.

The National Film Board Prairie Centre, CBC, SCN and SaskFilm will be using the festival as a kick-off for First Stories: Saskatchewan, an initiative developed for emerging Aboriginal filmmakers interested in documentary filmmaking.

Participants spend the week doing intense, hands-on documentary workshops preparing them to direct documentaries and advance their technical skills. Both First Stories: Saskatchewan participants and University of Regina students will take part in their own workshops at the Emerging Filmmakers Day.

The Yorkton Short Film and Video Festival, running this year from May 25th-28th, is Canada's longest running short film festival. Home of the prestigious Golden Sheaf Award, the Festival offers a unique opportunity for established and emerging filmmakers to meet face-to-face with industry decision makers and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of the Saskatchewan prairie. Visit www.yorktonshortfilm.org for more information.

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For More Information, Contact:

Janet Peters Culture, Youth and Recreation Regina Phone: (306) 787-4967

Fay Kowal Yorkton Short Film and Video Festival Yorkton Phone: (306) 782-7077