THE cast and crew of a new six-part Gaelic language drama series An Clò Mòr (The Great Cloth) have returned to the Western Isles for their final block of filming, bringing jobs and training opportunities to the islands.
With support from Gaelic media service MG Alba, Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar and Screen Scotland, six budding media professionals have been given the opportunity to work on the production of the series alongside stalwarts of the Scottish media sector on a six-month training scheme.
Those behind An Clò Mòr, produced by Solus Productions for BBC Alba, and funded by MG Alba and Screen Scotland, say this represents a significant milestone in the creation of high-quality scripted content for Gaelic audiences.
The colourful tale of passion, rivalry and intrigue among a Hebridean textile industry is being filmed at stunning locations across the Western Isles and in Studio Alba, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s television studio space in Stornoway.
As well as being on An Clò Mòr, the trainees work with other local and central belt media companies on a range of productions, developing new skills and experience in areas which will be beneficial in careers such as production, costume, script, locations and sound.
Margaret Cameron, director of content additionality at MG Alba, said: “MG Alba, alongside Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Screen Scotland, is proud to be supporting hands-on training opportunities for young people looking to gain experience in the dynamic Gaelic media sector. It’s encouraging to see new talent emerging both on screen and behind the camera.”
Councillor Donald Crichton, chair of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s sustainable development committee, said: “This is a truly unique opportunity for young people to learn new skills and experience from the very best in the business.”
Steven Little, head of production at Screen Scotland, added: “Developing the crew base is essential to the rapid growth of our screen industry as we continue to deliver training and production support across Scotland.”
