A host of Taranaki tamariki bring two of Ngāmotu New Plymouth’s stand-out stars to life in a new short film based on the best-selling local children’s book, Ross the Cat, thanks to funding from the NPDC-managed Creative Communities Scheme.

The children read the story of Ross and his favourite hang-out, Pukekura Park, highlighting the many attractions at the world-class and multiple Green Flag awarded park, which Ross roams almost every day.

"Never work with children and animals – isn’t that the saying? Well, following the success of my book Ross the Cat, I decided to create a real-life action version involving local children to narrate the story and of course, including the real-life Ross. The video was professionally shot to showcase the story and Pukekura Park at its best. It is a celebration of young talent in the district, a high-profile feline ambassador and the iconic Pukekura Park,” said author Helen Griffiths.

"Creative Communities supported the project that combined community storytelling with children’s involvement in the arts. Their enthusiasm and excitement were obvious, and the project culminated in a red-carpet premiere at the Len Lye Cinema, giving the children a taste of film star glamour – no doubt the first of many appearances for some.”

The video production received $2,755 from the Creative Communities Scheme.

Applications for Creative Communities funding are open until 18 August. Find out more at npdc.govt.nz/creativecommunitiesscheme.

FAST FACTS

• The Creative Communities Scheme is a partnership between the government’s Creative New Zealand arts agency and councils to promote community involvement, diversity and young people participating in the arts.
• Each year the NPDC Creative Communities Scheme distributes around $50,000 on behalf of Creative New Zealand to local artists and arts groups.
• Artists and arts groups can apply for up to $2,500 each round, but larger amounts can be granted for major projects.
• Last year the scheme helped about 40 artists and arts groups.

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