Empowering the Next Generation: Film Industry Professionals Visit Shrewsbury Riverside

Riverside Drama Riverside Junior

Film industry professionals Adi Alfa and Eric Myers recently spent a week at Shrewsbury Riverside, where they shared their expertise with students, delivered inspiring speeches at Junior School Speech Day and served as guest judges for the Junior School Film Fest.

Adi Alfa, an award-winning actress, writer, producer, director and makeup artist, is based in London. She has received numerous prestigious awards, including an NAFCA Award (African Oscar), a BEFFTA Star of the Year Award (2016) and two UK Entertainment Awards (2014/16). Adi is passionate about teaching students about the performing arts and providing young creatives with invaluable guidance drawn from her extensive experience.

“The thing that inspires me about teaching the youth about the film industry is the hope that we might give one child some sort of hope and belief that they can really be someone or something in this industry,” Adi shared. “I also love the fact that young people have access to these experiences that I can only have dreamed of at their age.”

Eric Myers, a London-based film director and cinematographer, is known for his passion for storytelling and his ability to bring characters to life on screen. With over 13 years of experience, Eric has created visually stunning and emotionally resonant films recognised by festivals and audiences alike. His collaborations include work with Channel 4, ITV, National Trust and Warm Street, as well as music artists such as Akon, Skepta, Young Ma, Bobby Valentino, Giggs and Popcaan. In 2021, he worked with Ed Sheeran on the music video for his single, ‘Peru,’ which topped charts in the UK. 

“Teaching young people about the film industry inspires me because it allows me to showcase various career paths within film, media and the arts. It helps them discover where their unique talents fit in. Being around their youthful energy and seeing the world through their eyes is incredibly inspiring to me,” Eric said.

Together, Adi and Eric founded Media Worx Films, a production company through which they have worked with a wide range of successful artists like Wes Nelson, Ed Sheeran, Chip and KSI, and they were the team responsible for Clean Bandit’s award-winning video, ‘Everything But You.’

Adi and Eric’s presence at Shrewsbury added great excitement to the week, from public speaking classes and Q&A sessions to special effects makeup 101. Their hands-on workshops allowed for students to step out of their comfort zones, discover new knowledge, unlock hidden talents and strengthen their existing skills. 

“There were so many memorable parts to our week at Shrewsbury, but moments that stood out were how much the students listened, learned and grew in such a short space of time,” Adi said. “I loved that we were able to bring them into our world, and I loved seeing them thrive and rise to the challenge,” Adi said. 

During the public speaking workshops, students gathered in small groups to learn breathing techniques, voice projection and body language. Y6 Heads of School, House Captains, Sports Captains and Music Leaders attended the first workshop, strengthening the public speaking and leadership skills they have developed throughout the year. A second session was held for 20 students who applied for the opportunity to work with Adi, learning the same techniques to enrich their skills. 

Adi and Eric also hosted an acting workshop for Year 6 students, nominated by teachers for their talent and commitment to filmmaking drama sessions. The workshop helped students to further develop their performance skills with scene partners.

“The kids got to play the roles of director and actor, and each group worked on a short film. I loved how they engaged with one another and brought the script to life,” Eric said.

In addition to acting workshops, Adi and Eric worked with Prep students to teach them how to produce their movies from scratch, resulting in the production of an original short film, ‘My Teacher Is a Witch’.

In the special effects makeup classes, Adi taught our Junior students about VFX makeup, showing them how to create the illusion of blood and other injuries. Meanwhile, Senior students spent an afternoon practising the application of eye makeup, adorned with blue and silver paint, gemstones and snowflakes. Students showcase their skills at the Junior School Film Festival which concluded the week. 

“I’m inspired by the raw talent that comes from these kids at such a young age, their curiosity, their fearlessness and their creativity is so refreshing,” Adi said.

The week culminated in the Junior School Film Festival, where Adi and Eric, invited as Guest Judges, addressed Junior school students and the greater Shrewsbury community in an inspiring speech for the school’s young filmmakers. The opportunity to work with two industry professionals was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students, who enjoyed themselves immensely and learnt a great deal.

“The award show was the best I’ve ever attended, and I loved seeing all the hard work of the students be rewarded. I think it’s important to reward creativity and outstanding work,” Adi said. 

Adi Alfa and Eric Myers’ visit to Shrewsbury Riverside was not only an educational experience but also a profound source of inspiration for the students. Their workshops and interactions highlighted the diverse career opportunities within the film industry and encouraged students to pursue their creative passions. The event underscored the importance of providing young minds with access to professionals who can nurture their talents and ignite their imaginations.