The Goethe-Institut Namibia in partnership with Namibia Film Commission and Pegasus Entertainment Productions, is inviting new and emerging writers and directors to submit their short film ideas for the Goethe Stage Project.
The Goethe-Institut Namibia is known for promoting cultural engagement by fostering dialogue through the arts and the Goethe Stage.
Goethe-Institut spokesperson, Lendl Izaaks, in a media statement on Thursday said the programme has since 2017 funded over 20 projects that manifested various exhibitions, plays, and workshops.
“We invite submissions of short film scripts (10–20 pages) from new as well as emerging writer/ directors with no more than two short films to their credit,” he said.
Izaak was quoted in the statement as saying a jury of industry experts will select the three scripts to go into production, overseen by theatre and film producer/director, Senga Brockerhoff.
“We are interested in stories that explore bold reflections on the times we live in and the human condition, especially in the contemporary Namibian context,” he said.
He noted that beneficiaries from the Goethe Stage from late 2019 had the opportunity to premiere their short films in April 2020, adding that in response to the genre’s popularity growth in Africa and potential in Namibia, short-film was chosen as the project’s focus.
“After an in-depth analysis and review of project proposals, Jenny Kandenge, Lloyd Winini, and Namafu Amutse were selected to produce their short films with a production team from Namibia. Production and the premiere were delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said.
He further noted that writers may submit with a separate director should they prefer not to direct themselves and that theatre writers/directors are encouraged to apply. Previous successful applicants are not eligible.
Application forms are available on The Goethe-Institut Namibia’s website and close on 25 June 2021.