UK entertainment trade publication Screen International, in association with Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, has revealed the filmmakers and actors selected for the first-ever Rising Stars Ireland talent spotlight.
Ten upcoming actors, directors, producers, and writers who are about to make a significant career breakthrough have been chosen. All of the individuals picked are either Irish citizens or permanently based on the island of Ireland.
Screen International and Fs Éireann/Screen Ireland collaborated to create Rising Stars Ireland, which is an offshoot of Screen’s UK & Ireland Stars of Tomorrow programme.
The inaugural Rising Stars are: Dónal Finn (actor), Thaddea Graham (actor), Éanna Hardwicke (actor), Ella Lily Hyland (actor), Patrick Martins (actor), Collie McCarthy (producer), Katie McNeice (writer/director), Mia Mullarkey (writer/director), Rioghnach Ní Ghrioghair (writer/director), and Derek Ugochukwu (writer/director).
The ten were chosen by Screen International‘s Executive Editor, Reviews and Talent, Fionnuala Halligan.
“It has been my ambition since the day I started work on UK Stars of Tomorrow to break Ireland out, and it’s certainly the year for Irish breakout success,” said Halligan ahead of the BAFTAS and Oscars.
“It’s a delight to select these passionate Irish storytellers for this first edition of Rising Stars Ireland and get a look at the force which is brewing there through the many thoughtful applications we received.”
Désirée Finnegan, Chief Executive of Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, added: “Screen Ireland is delighted to congratulate the actors, directors, writers, and producers selected for Rising Stars Ireland.
“This partnership with Screen International is a showcase of the incredible range of emerging talent working in Ireland and an opportunity to provide an international platform for new voices.
“We’re looking forward to seeing what comes next from these filmmakers – both on screen and behind the camera.”