The mid-west is set to become a bigger hub for the screen industries in 2020 with the launch of new training initiatives and a drive to bring more film and TV productions to Limerick, Clare, and Tipperary.
Film in Limerick’s Regional Film Manager, Paul C. Ryan, has set out his vision for the screen industries in the region that emphasises the development of filmmaking infrastructure, nurturing homegrown talent, and working to make the mid-west an attractive destination for Hollywood and other foreign productions.
This comes at a time when film and TV have become a significant employer in the region with the success of Troy Studios in Limerick, which has generated hundreds of jobs for local residents from carpenters and riggers to camera and costume design crew.
Paul C Ryan said: “Historically, Limerick, Clare and Tipperary have not benefited from film and TV production to the same extent as other parts of the country. Now, with Troy Studios, new tax credit increases, and a growing base of talented crew to support visiting productions, we expect even more films to come to the region to shoot as well as more films being made by local filmmakers.”
The increased focus on film has already seen a boost in filmmaking and filming enquiries in the region with several productions in the works including a major Apple TV+ production now filming in Troy Studios.
Last autumn, German mini-series “An Irish Crime Story” produced by Good Friends Filmproduktions, shot on location in Limerick’s Pery Square. Outside of Limerick, BBC Studios and Irish company Treasure Entertainment are to begin filming a six part series called ‘Smother’ this spring, which will be set and shot on location on the rugged coast of County Clare.
As well as visiting productions, Ryan has ambitious plans to support local creatives to produce their own work and to see the region represented in more film and TV productions through new training and networking events in the region and internationally.
Film in Limerick has launched a series of monthly meet-up events to bring together local aspiring and practicing filmmakers for training and networking events. The first event held in December saw a large turnout to hear script and pitching expert Brian McGill share his tips and tricks on getting films made.
