16 January 2012
Innovative Cathedral Films to lead the way exploring rich Christian Heritage
Truro Cathedral is mid way through a ground breaking Heritage Lottery Funded project to help visitors to the Cathedral explore and understand the rich heritage of the building.
The project is a collaboration between the Cathedral, University College Falmouth and Three S Films of Penzance.
Sarah Hughes, Cathedral Education Officer, explains, “What we really wanted to do was bring alive as many of the human and physical treasures in the Cathedral as we can, by linking objects, say for instance a replica chalice, with a short 1-2 minute film that expresses something of its history and use.”
It is hoped that by the summer, the system will be installed in a dedicated part of the cathedral for people to use. Visitors would simply pick up replica objects and place them on a special interactive mat, this will then trigger a short film on a screen.
The project has resulted in the development of 33 films covering a diverse range of subject matter, including films describing the various roles and jobs of cathedral staff and volunteers, and showing and explaining different parts of an act of worship. Mitch Adams, Three S Films, Director said, “Truro Cathedral is an iconic part of Cornwall and we were honoured to be asked to produce this series of short films. It is impossible not to be overawed by the grandeur of this building, which coupled with the enthusiasm, love and commitment of the people involved, made our task a pleasure. “
The project is supported by University College Falmouth to help make these stories accessible to all ages through inclusive design using their staff expertise and their world class making facilities.
Andrew Harbert, Associate Dean: Academic Development & Planning, University College Falmouth, said, “This project is a wonderful opportunity to tell the fascinating stories held within the Cathedral in new and interesting ways. From the history of the window for the Newlyn fishermen, the story behind the money given by the children of Cornwall to help build the Cathedral, to those who currently work there, it brings to life the people and history of one of Cornwall’s most important landmarks.”
This groundbreaking project is likely to be the first such one in a cathedral in this country.
Philip Lambert, Canon Missioner at Truro Cathedral said, “We are very excited about this way of involving our visitors and welcoming them into a world of mystery and imagination. Our hope is that they will leave Truro Cathedral having been refreshed and inspired for their life journey”.
The films have been designed to be inclusive and include subtitles and a clear narration designed to appeal to people who are visually impaired.
People can get a feel for the type of films that are being developed by going to the cathedral website (www.trurocathedral.org.uk) or Three S Films website (www.threesfilms.com).
For further details Contact:
Colin Reid, Communications Officer, Truro Cathedral, 01872 245007
