The Replay Festival, a new film, photography, and media festival created by and for children and young people in Rotherham, made its debut with a red-carpet premiere at Arc cinema on Monday 10th November.
Over 200 children from local schools gathered at the premiere to enjoy a big screen experience of films they have made themselves, with help from celebrated film directors and animators. One of the highlights of the six-day festival in November was a new animation about a magic car that flies over Rotherham, casting spells. Over 300 children from five Rotherham primary schools worked with former Aardman animator, Virpi Kettu of Kettu Studios, to co-create the piece, which is dedicated to Rotherham’s landmark year as the world’s first Children’s Capital of Culture.
Laura Robson, head teacher at Bramley Sunnyside Junior School which took part in the animation project, said: “For our children, working with an expert and using specialist software to bring their ideas to life for the big screen is simply magical. Our pupils aren’t just continuing their love of creativity beyond the classroom – they’re taking it further than many could ever imagine. Experiences like this don’t just inspire awe; they open doors to future careers and ignite a lifelong passion for learning. What an incredible opportunity for our young creatives.”