28 November 2012

 Students at Aberystwyth University have been given the opportunity to be part of an exciting TV drama production which will be show on S4C.

At the moment, crews from TV company Fiction Factory are working in the Aberystwyth and the surrounding area in Ceredigion to film the thrilling detective series Mathias. The series will be broadcast on S4C in 2013.

In partnership with the University, the company is able to offer unique opportunities for students who wish to pursue a career in the film and TV industry. Last week (19 to 23 November) seven students enjoyed a five day work experience with the team, and more students will have similar opportunities over the coming months.

Ed Thomas, executive producer and co-creator of Mathias, is an Honorary Professor at the University's Department of Theatre, Film and Television Studies. He is proud be able to offer this opportunity to the students.

"We were very proud to welcome the students to our team last week and to be able to show them the different aspects of work which goes in to a production like Mathias. It's rare that students get the chance to experience this type of work first hand, especially in their local area. During our time working in Aberystwyth, it was importants for us to set up a good relationship with the University and we look forward to welcoming more enthusiastic students to the set between now and the end of filming in May 2013."

The seven who enjoyed work experience with the crew last week are Sam James, Elliot McIntosh, Abigail Walters, Jonathan Downs, Eleanor Silkstone, Lucy Wylde and Ellen Dinsgtad. They are all second or third year students in the Department of Theatre Film and Television Studies.

Each one was put to work in different areas of the production including sound, camera, costume, editing, designing, make-up and production.

Abigail Walters enjoyed a week working with the costume department, "Whilst on the placement I learned a great deal about the extensive work done in the costume department. They allowed me to go onto set and see firsthand what actually happens on a busy location shoot. I felt this was a fantastic and enjoyable opportunity that allowed me to learn whilst watching industry professionals at work."

Dr Jamie Medhurst, Head of the Department of Theatre, Film and Television Studies, said, "I'm delighted that the Department has been able to work with Fiction Factory on this major television production. I'm grateful to the producers for giving our students the opportunity to develop their skills in a rapidly-changing media world and know that those who spend time with the company will benefit enormously. This is another example of the Department collaborating with the creative industries and enhancing the already strong student experience at Aberystwyth."

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