IN recent years, there has been an increase in arts and drama production in Guyana owing to the enabling environment created by Government. Improvements in facilities such as the National Cultural Centre (NCC) which accommodates most events of this nature is testimony to Government’s dedication towards the advancement of this field.
Screenwriter and Director, Mahadeo Shivraj and Promoter, Neaz Subhan of the movie “Till I find a place” paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Samuel Hinds at his Office at Wight’s Lane, Kingston on Tuesday last. In addition, invitations for the premier of the movie on June 23 at NCC were presented to Prime Minister Hinds.
Mr. Hinds indicated that making the movie in Guyana was a good idea and great medium of advertising the country. He alluded to the fact that the physical condition of Georgetown has changed with the erection of big buildings and visibly maintained structures.
He highlighted that the beauty of the city has also been enhanced, but the issue of littering needs to be taken seriously. It was also noted that the Mayor and City Council has to do more to further improve the City.
Since the movie utilises only Guyanese talents, Prime Minister Hinds noted that it can allow for the marketing of local artistes.
Prime Minister Hinds indicated that many places around the world make films with low cost cameras and they are being marketed.
With respect to further marketing Guyana and the movie, he advised that, “Probably you should venture and sell it to a company on the web, one that focuses on diasporas.”
Shivraj, who is no stranger to directing and the arts and drama field, noted that the movie was originally a play named “Till ah find a place” written by a Guyanese, Ronald Hollingsworth.
The movie, which was shot in Guyana, highlights many important landmarks including the Umana Yana and the Light House. Shivraj noted that the movie provides an opportunity to promote Guyana as a tourist destination. In addition, it will also enlighten Guyanese who have departed years ago to North America and Canada of the transformation that has taken placed in Guyana.
Besides promoting local actors – including Sonia Yarde, Linden “Jumbie” Jones, Petal Burnette, and Alicia Persaud – the film utilises nine songs from local singers.
Speaking on the content of the movie, he emphasised that it is a captivating drama with a serious storyline based on infidelity but will keep the audience laughing. He noted that although there are no nude scenes and obscene language in the movie, a rating allowing viewers from 16 years and above has been applied.
“We had a private screening in New York with a select audience of Indo and Afro Guyanese ranging from 18 – 70 years and the reaction of the movie was fantastic,” Shivraj stated.
He further noted that he and his partners want to create a foundation for film making in Guyana. Shivraj indicated that the business community should get on board to foster the growth of the industry.