The videos would help inform current and future generations. Where pen and quill once recorded the events of Plymouth’s past, contemporary video technology would record the changes happening in the heart of the city.
The-Box Plymouth video production creating a legacy
Working with such an important project has been rewarding and occasionally surprising. So far we’ve filmed aerial acrobats, dancers and poets, part of the sensational contemporary performance to launch The Box brand in Drake Circus and more. Of course, as film makers, another highlight was our shoot at the South West Film and Television Archive (SWFTA). The SWFTA team gave us access to their wealth of film and video, a moving reminder of Plymouth’s past. This resource will be moved to the Media Lab, one of main galleries inside The Box. It’s a privilege to think that one day our videos might also become part of that archive.
The launch of The Box brand took place in Drake Circus
Weird and wonderful highlights
Our most surprising encounters have involved the Museum’s collections. We came face to face with a Lamprey (admittedly a `pickled’ or preserved one) when filming the spirit collection. Over 4,000 jars of creatures, some of them the stuff of nightmares moved to a temporary site. We also never imagined we would be present at the wrapping of an ancient Egyptian mummy coffin from Thebes. Now carefully packaged and in storage, this coffin will take pride of place, alongside other iconic objects, when The Box opens in 2020.
A specimen from the Museum and Art Gallery’s spirit collection
Chris filming the groundbreaking ceremony for The Box
Other highlights include filming different aspects of the Museum On Tour programme, particularly this summer’s Ropewalks performances. There, we met some interesting characters who were able to tell us what life was like on the Barbican hundreds of years ago. Filming last year’s Illuminate parade at night was breath-taking.In addition to key events, we have captured pivotal stages relating to the building and construction work. From the initial ground-breaking ceremony, to the demolition of modern extensions and outbuildings.
We will continue to film each important moment as this flagship project continues on its journey towards its completion in time for the 2020 Mayflower commemorations.
