'Shifting Brilliances' addresses the arts in Northern Ireland

A major conference 'Shifting Brilliances' took place at the Odyssey Arena in Belfast on September 19 to address the lack of television production and to support the performing arts in Northern Ireland.
The conference was in response to the lack of network television production in Northern Ireland, which continues to see local talent and opportunities go elsewhere.
Peter Hain, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland headed the initiative designed to achieve an upsurge in creative and cultural activity in Northern Ireland.
Jointly hosted by four influential organisations: Arts Council NI, Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure, Equity and the Northern Ireland Film and Television Commission, this important and unique one day conference was designed to provide focus on how a stronger television drama and performing arts sector can be developed in Northern Ireland.
Shifting Brilliances is the first time that the major players from the public service broadcasters, as well as from within the independent production sector and performing arts world gathered.
The purpose of the initiative was to improve the opportunities for production of drama and entertainment and build lasting improvements in the quality of life for all citizens of Northern Ireland.
It is believed that this will have real economic, social and political benefits - and is an opportunity to improve the representation of Northern Ireland. The creative economy of Northern Ireland as a whole already supports 29,000 job and contributes an annual turnover of Euro 900 million.
(DS/CD)