SASM 3rd Independence Day dinner

SASM 3rd Independence Day dinner that was held, for the third time, at Ta’ Kenuna Bar and Restaurant in Nadur Gozo. There were many individuals who attended for the first time. This is very encouraging.

 

Committee members John Mizzi, Joe Meilak, Joyce Grech and Alan Bonnici together with Mona Vella-Nicholas arrived at the venue before to decorate the place and turn the restaurant into a little bit of the USA. We will let those looking at the photos judge whether we achieved our goal. As in the past, the proceedings kicked off with the singing of the Maltese and US National Anthems. After that the food started being served. In the background, US songs for the occasion could, at times, be heard over the chatter and laughter of those attending.
 

President Alan Bonnici interrupted dessert. In his short speech he thanked all those who had attended as well as those SASM members who, while not present, take an interest in the organization. He stressed that SASM is by members for members and that the occasional email of encouragement from a member would energise the committee to keep going. He also thanked the committee members who volunteer their time to improve and promote SASM. SASM is a not-for-profit organization that thrives on the input of its members and offers services and support to all those who have at heart the continued good relations between Malta and the USA.

Joyce Grech then became the master of ceremonies for the raffle part of the event. A young attendee was selected from the audience (we have a few shy volunteers who refused to be the centre of attention) to pick out the raffle tickets. Thanks to our sponsors many of those attending walk away with a prize.

At the end, those who live in Gozo drove or walked home while those who came from Malta headed for the ferry. Those attendees living in the USA continued their holiday.

Stars and Stripes Malta would like to thank the following organisations and individuals for helping out:

 

A Little Knight Musik

Screenwriting lectures

 The public is invited to attend 3 free lectures on the art of screen writing addressed by 3 visiting lecturers from the University of Southern California David Howard, Martin Daniel and Mary Kate O’Flanagan. 3rd, 4th and 5th July at 19:00.  Attendance is free: Registration is required on imagine@valletta2018.org.

Ben Hecht, an American screenwriter, director and producer, known as the Shakespeare of Hollywood, once said it would be easier to become famous by riding a tricycle than by writing screenplays. On first glance these might not sound like the most encouraging words for those interested in joining the industry.  The reality is that millions of creators are drawn into this world, lured by the glitz and glamour of the red carpet. However, the problem lies with the fact that many who want to write believe they have nothing to learn, that anyone who can string a sentence can become a writer.

Composers study harmony and theories of musical form. Painters study colours and various techniques. Every art form requires a basic understanding of the craft, so does storytelling.  How does one build exciting stories? How does one create exciting characters? How does one structure and plot a tale? How does one build rich scenes? The Valletta 2018 Foundation, together with three lecturers from the University of Southern California, will be helping local professionals and students to develop and strengthen their insight into story. They will be nurturing their capacity to conceive and express characters, to create parts that will whet anyone’s appetite.

Attendees will also be provided with thorough insight into the business and economics of feature film production so that they fully understand the commercial marketplace. David Howard, Martin Daniel and Mary Kate O’Flanagan will be presenting three public talks about the art of screenwriting and story analysis. On each day, a different film will be shown and dissected in great detail. These lectures are mainly aimed at the local film and TV industry talent. However, the general public is also encouraged to attend. Registration on imagine@valletta2018.org.