Get to know our team: Stuart Peters
Wed 23 Dec 2015
Stuart Peters joined Phoenix on a six-month internship through De Montfort University’s Frontrunners employability scheme. As assistant film programmer, he’s one of the small group of people who work behind the scenes to craft our daily schedules and bring you great films.
Stuart shares some insight into what goes on in the world of film programming at an independent cinema like Phoenix.
Over the past few months, I’ve learned countless new things about the independent film industry. The software used by cinemas, how to organise screenings and events, how to structure daily and weekly film programmes – not to mention the opportunity to attend specialised events and liaise with other independent cinemas.
Working as a Creative Programme Assistant intern at Phoenix has been a fantastic opportunity for me to learn these sorts of things, some of which I never really thought about before.
I’ve always wanted to get involved in the production side of film, possibly directing and being involved in front of the camera as an actor. When I saw the internship was available through DMU, I was intrigued to learn more about the film industry.
The highlight so far has been attending the ICO screening day in Nottingham this November. This is an important day for independent cinemas, as film programmers from across the country can preview upcoming films to decide what to put on their programme. So this meant I got to see films long before they’re being released to the public. Unfortunately I’m unable to discuss the films in detail, but some of them were incredible – the awards season this year will be mind-blowing!
I also met people from other independent cinemas and compared what their upcoming programme is shaping up like, and we shared viewpoints on the films in question. It was great to learn so much from peers in the industry.
I’m also now collaborating with both Phoenix and De Montfort University through my degree in film. For my course we will produce a film festival to be held at Phoenix, and now that I understand how so many aspects of the cinema are run, it puts me in a great place to work with both my colleagues and my fellow students.
Lastly, I need to mention how friendly everyone is at Phoenix – they’re great people to be surrounded with. Jake (the film programme manager) has been a brilliant help in guiding me along the way – and there are even times now where Jake is away and I’m left to crack on with things. Being given that support and gaining in confidence is a great feeling.
You can find out more about some of our admin staff on our About the Team page.
Check out January’s film programme, where the Oscars season first kicks off at Phoenix.