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Web series uncovers Indigenous talent

A group of young Indigenous women from Western Sydney will make their silver screen debut on November 4 with new web series, Kasey is Missing.

The series premieres at Hoyts Cinema Penrith and launches globally for all viewers at www.ice.org.au. 

Written and performed by Leonie Haines, Debbie Shepherd, Michaela Johnson and Mary Ridgeway, Kasey is Missing provides a window into the lives of young Aboriginal women growing up Sydney’s Western suburbs. 

Produced by Parramatta-based arts organisation ICE, Information and Cultural Exchange, the series touches upon topics such as the strength of children and the innocence destroyed by realities of life on a Western Sydney housing estate.

Producer and actor, Mary Ridgway, said the project allowed the kids to learn about cameras, acting and writing.

"But most importantly they are learning about their culture,” she said.

“This project has helped these guys continue to learn and make something of themselves and they know that they can be whatever they want to be".

The production is the culmination of five years working with the Nepean Community Neighborhood Centre, and will be released as a five part web series.

Several seasoned professionals participated in the production, offering invaluable advice and encouragement to the emerging performers. 

The creative team behind the film includes director Colin Kinchela, cinematographer, Sam Phibbs, dramaturg, Nadia Townsend and first time producer, Mary Ridgeway.

Contributors to script development included Nico Lathouris, Nadia Townsend and Fadia Abboud with an original score by Corey Webster.

Director Colin Kinchela said the series was unique because it was filmed “on community, with community, about community and sees local young women tell stories about their local area through film.”

“With the production of this series ICE continues their lead in engaging communities through screen arts,” he said. 

“Giving local writers and performers a platform not easily accessible to those outside the film industry.”

Producer, Christian Tancred, said it was inspiring to see support for young Aboriginal women in independent film,” he said.

“ICE is proud to be able to facilitate storytelling through experimental production techniques and to honour these young women’s stories.”

The arts organisation has worked with Western Sydney communities for over 31 years, aiming to empower individuals through training programs and education workshops that focus on cultural development, screen techniques and digital technology.

In the making of Kasey is Missing, ICE was supported by the Penrith City Council, Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation, Crown Resorts Foundation, The Packer Family Foundation, Department of Families and Community Services, Screen NSW and Arts NSW.

ICE (Information & Cultural Exchange) is a Western Sydney community arts organisation working in the areas of cultural development, screen culture and digital technology and related education/training programs.

 ICE has worked with Western Sydney communities, artists and creative producers for 31-years.