RISE by Henley Festival’s Post

The Collective Struggle and Growth in Entertainment In the entertainment industry, from directors to actors and producers, each day brings its own set of challenges. The road to success is often paved with obstacles, testing one's resilience and determination. However, amidst the struggle, there lies a spirit of camaraderie and shared growth. For newcomers entering the industry, the journey can feel overwhelming. From breaking into the scene to gaining recognition, the path is fraught with uncertainty. Yet, it's during these early stages that the support of industry veterans becomes invaluable. Those who have weathered the storm understand the importance of paying it forward, offering guidance and mentorship to the next generation of talent. Even for those who have achieved a measure of success, the challenges persist. The pressure to maintain relevance and secure funding for projects can be relentless. However, many choose to use their platform to uplift others, creating opportunities for collaboration and mentorship. In a competitive industry where individual success is often celebrated, it's essential to remember the power of collective growth. By supporting one another and fostering a culture of inclusivity, we can ensure that the industry continues to thrive. Together, let's embrace the journey, knowing that our collective efforts will pave the way for a brighter future in entertainment. #EntertainmentIndustry #Support #Collaboration #NewTalent #Mentorship #Success #Opportunities #Inclusivity #Unity #CollectiveEffort #BrightFuture

Regardless of the outcome Ian is one of the best in the business. Well done.

Y’all, let’s talk about what it really takes to pull off big productions. Now listen, the event and entertainment industry is not for the faint of heart—it’s long nights, early mornings, and a whole lot of coffee. But the beauty of it all? It’s the people behind the scenes who show up, work hard, and make the magic happen. Take Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour for example. Now y’all know this tour brought in over $2 BILLION (yes, billion with a B), making it the highest-grossing tour ever. But what truly blew me away was how she handled success. Taylor didn’t just take the win and move on—she shared it in the most generous way. She gave $197 million in bonuses to her crew. Y’all, that’s dancers, tech teams, and even 50 truck drivers who each got $100,000. That kind of gratitude and leadership? It’s rare—and it’s real. Now, let’s be honest: no one gets into this industry thinking it’s going to be easy. Whether you’re planning weddings, running corporate events, or producing sold-out tours, the key is being reliable, trustworthy, and ready to do the hard work. And guess what? That effort doesn’t go unnoticed. (Side note: If someone wants to hand me $100k for showing up, I’m ready. Just saying.) 😉 Moral of the story? Keep showing up. Stay committed. And never underestimate the power of a thank-you—whether it’s a kind word or a six-figure bonus (we can all dream, right?). And for those of us working behind the scenes, let’s keep doing what we do best: making the impossible look easy. GOD sees the hard work, y’all. Trust the process, be grateful for the opportunities, and know there’s always more in store. #EventProduction #EntertainmentIndustry #Leadership #Teamwork #Gratitude #TaylorSwift #ErasTour

Some asked, why choose to be backstage crew? Why choose this path? What is it so difference being on backstage rather than performer? So, why being part of backstage crew is fun and what you will learn from being one of it? You asked me? Here are some points I can think of: ✅ At every event, you meet different ppl, different sets of crew and different challenges. You grow in every single way you can in solving problems spontaneously and you’re mentally prepared for any worse scenario. ✅ You bond with people so close that you treat them as family or close friends, or maybe someone you can rely on. ✅ You learn to trust people or strangers, or someone you don’t even know for more than your actual close friends/ family. ✅ You challenge yourself to take on a roles you never thought you’d be in (for example: stage manager to emcee) #biggest challenge. ✅ Learn how to talk to people, and firm and fun, and laugh, be strong, being kind, be understanding, be patient, being adaptable, punctual, friendly, and strict, and so and so and so.. (basically being someone who can adapt to everyone). And I guess, here are my reasons why. Sekian.

Making the choice to enter the creative industries is rarely an easy one. It can be seen as risky, unconventional and unwise. But these are real industries. These are real careers. I have such respect for people who chase their passions to build their careers in the creative industries. Here are three examples of Toronto Film School grads who have done that. Congrats to them and to all of our alumni making big waves around the world. https://lnkd.in/g5qvG95i

Learn from the best of the best editors!

As my young trainees increasingly engage with screens, why not choose thought-provoking content that sparks reflection and conversation? These narratives transform screen time into a powerful tool for self-discovery and understanding. 😊 These are some of the short films I enjoy that explore the nuances of human emotions, from empathy to impulse, compelling us to reflect on life’s simple yet complex moments. 1. The Employment   This satirical short invites us into a world where people are mere tools in a dull, mechanized society. With stark imagery, it questions how often we diminish people to their job roles, reflecting on our tendency to overlook the person behind the title. A contemplative reminder that true value lies beyond the confines of employment and routine.  Watch here (https://lnkd.in/g6hJ4Hjk) 2. One-Minute Time Machine  This one looks at regret and vulnerability unearths the complexity of emotions entangled in human interactions. A journey that reflects our struggles with overthinking, showing that sometimes, letting go is the real victory.  Watch here (https://lnkd.in/gqkXG-Zn) 3. For the Birds   This film shows how mocking can result in exclusion and judgment. Without a word spoken, it vividly depicts the power of non-verbal communication and social dynamics. You might not realize how much can be conveyed through facial expressions and body movements. Watch here (https://lnkd.in/gCbidqXW) 4. My Shoes  "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view until you climb in his skin and walk around in it." – To Kill a Mockingbird  Comparing our life to others can lead to envy which can distort our perception. This simple yet stirring story captures how our perception is often clouded by what we think we see in others’ lives. Watch here (https://lnkd.in/gqM2kb6c) 5. Validation   In a world starved for kindness, this uplifting story follows a man who discovers the joy of making others smile through heartfelt compliments. What a lovely piece on the psychology of self-worth, social connection, and positive reinforcement. Watch here (https://lnkd.in/geV7_rA7) 6. Lifted   Shows the impact of peer pressure and the vulnerability of self-esteem. It explores how a controlling figure can affect someone’s confidence and actions. You can relate if you have had a toxic boss. Watch here (https://lnkd.in/gHvMXiAk) 7. The Control   The internal struggle between willpower and impulse. It demonstrates the power of manipulation in self-control. Be a little kinder! Some people truly grapple to regulate their emotions. Watch here (https://lnkd.in/gmwypTPY) Happy watching folks! #learning #watchhabits #positivechange #behaviouralscience #positivepsychology #habitformation #awareness #emotionalintelligence #psychology #language

The first Skills Bootcamp has been delivered at Farnborough International Studios! 🙌 🎬 🚀 Farnborough International Studios has opened its doors to assistant directors in the making with ‘The Becoming a 3rd AD – Skills Bootcamp’ course in collaboration with All Spring Media Limited and Hampshire County Council, who manage the Skills Bootcamps training programme for the county. Find out more: https://lnkd.in/enT8PWZ8 Led by a range of expert professionals from the film industry, the free two-week intensive training program will provide 10 people, with some experience of the film industry, a unique opportunity to gain the essential skills and knowledge to excel within a role as a 3rd Assistant Director. Leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Nick Adams-King said: “By working with our partners, we’ve been able to bring together this exciting and unique training opportunity – just one of a range of industry-specific free training courses on offer through Hampshire’s Skills Bootcamps." Discussing the program for the community, Jennifer Upstill, Employment and Skills Officer, Rushmoor Borough Council, said: “We are thrilled that Farnborough International Studios is delivering vital training opportunities in this key sector right here in our local community. This initiative not only nurtures local talent but also strengthens the creative industry by equipping individuals with the skills needed to thrive in film and media production.” Martina Porter, Managing Director of All Spring Media Limited, added: “All Spring Media is excited to partner with Farnborough International Studios to deliver the Becoming a 3rd AD Skills Bootcamp supported by Hampshire County Council and the Department for Education. Since launching our production Skills Bootcamps in 2023, we have supported over 150 learners and seen nearly 100 into jobs. The Skills Bootcamps provide an agile and nurturing way to support and grow diverse talent for our sector, which is a mission we share with our colleagues at Farnborough International Studios. We wish all our participants the very best of luck as they continue their careers and development in film and TV production. Farnborough International Rachel Morrison Lewis Jeffery #skillsbootcamps #training #film #tv #production #FilmAtFarnborough

✨ Meet Ash, our business development expert extraordinaire hailing from the bustling hub of Pictureworks in Singapore! With a keen eye for opportunities and a knack for forging fruitful partnerships, Ash is your go-to person for all things growth-related! 1️⃣ : Can you share a bit about your background and what is it that you do at Pictureworks? Ash: Hey there! It's been quite the adventure – this marks my fifth year with Pictureworks. Initially, my focus was on operations integration and management. But since rejoining in June 2023, I've shifted gears to business development. 2️⃣ : What inspired you to join our team at PictureWorks? Ash: Let me whisk you away on a jaunt down memory lane. Back in my undergrad days, I was a part-time photographer with PW. There, I glimpsed the tight-knit PW family – always there for each other, no matter the curveballs life threw our way. 3️⃣ : What do you enjoy most about working in the tech industry, and how does that passion drive your work? Ash: Ah, the tech world – it's a whirlwind! Ever-changing, always exciting. Though keeping up with trends can feel like a maze, the joy of capturing and preserving memories for people worldwide makes it all worthwhile. 4️⃣ : If you could visit any place in the world tomorrow, where would you go and why? Ash: You'll likely find me prepping for a scuba dive in the majestic Galapagos, ready to plunge into the depths and rub fins with some fin-tastic sharks and maybe even some majestic whales! #pictureworksteam #employeeinterviews #holistic

BREAKING NEWS: Vancouver, BC - Story Institute and Studio for Actors are excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership aimed at elevating excellence and innovation in performing arts education. This collaboration brings together two esteemed institutions known for their dedication to nurturing talent and pushing artistic boundaries. With a shared vision of empowering aspiring actors to achieve their full potential, Story Institute and Studio for Actors are set to offer unmatched opportunities for growth and development. As part of this partnership, students from both institutions will gain access to a wide range of resources, including: 1. Joint Workshops and Masterclasses: Renowned industry professionals and faculty members from both schools will collaborate to deliver immersive workshops and masterclasses, providing students with invaluable insights and practical skills. 2. Cross-Institutional Training Programs: Students will have the chance to participate in each school's programs with special benefits, enhancing their learning experience. 3. Collaborative Projects and Productions: Through joint productions and collaborative projects, students will collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds, fostering creativity and teamwork. 4. Networking and Industry Connections: The partnership will facilitate networking opportunities with industry professionals, agents, and casting directors, giving students valuable connections to kickstart their careers. Michael Coleman, CEO of Story Institute, expressed his enthusiasm for the new partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to embark on this transformative partnership with Studio for Actors. Together, we will redefine the standards of excellence in performing arts education and empower the next generation of actors to make their mark on the world stage. This partnership represents a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to providing our students with the highest quality education and training." Story Institute’s President, Elena Olsen, added, "This collaboration signifies our dedication to creating a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that empowers students to thrive in the competitive world of acting. We look forward to inspiring creativity, fostering innovation, and shaping the future of acting through this exciting partnership." Story Institute and Studio for Actors are poised to set new benchmarks in performing arts education, offering students unparalleled opportunities to excel in their acting careers. #partnership #acting #actor #education #career #storyinstitute #Studioforactors