NEXT TALK: HOW TO CREATE A PROJECT FOR KIDS?

Curious about crafting narratives that captivate kids? Wondering how to navigate parental concerns or interested in getting your film into classrooms?

Join our panel for insight about the do’s and don’ts of creating tailored for young audiences! As the Netherlands is leading in this kind, with this edition of NEXT TALK we want to inspire a new generation of creators. Merel Gilsing, an expert on young audience and talent development as she previously worked for EYE, Beeld en Geluid and Cinekid, will be hosting this edition. Throughout the evening, she will discuss crafting successful content for younger viewers alongside director/writer Camiel Schouwenaar and 3D-animator Lydia Mikkers, both acclaimed for their work with captivating kids.

Camiel Schouwenaar, whose journey began at VPRO’s Villa Achterwerk, specializes in youth drama and animation. His signature blend of storytelling, imagination and humor shines through in films such as 'Lief Konijn’, ‘Strijder’ and ‘Nu of Nooit - Polska Warrior', earning him a Gouden Kalf. Lydia Mikkers honed her craft in Vancouver, contributing to TV series such as ‘Barbie’, ‘Dinotrux’, ‘Bob The Builder’ and ‘Madagascar: A Little Wild’. Recently she returned to Europe to lend her talents to projects like the film ‘Benjamin Bat; and a commercial for ‘Pokémon’.

Through this NEXT TALK, we aim to empower creators to deepen their understanding and broaden their horizons, offering valuable insights for both creators and educators alike. Discover how to resonate with the unique world of children, navigate the incorporation of weighty themes into children's films and unravel the secrets behind the successful Dutch way of captivating young audiences.