The annual awards ceremony, know as the ‘Black Bafta’s’, is taking place on October 16th in celebration of the diversity and excellence present within the British film and television industries.
The event taking place at the indigO2, recognises the achievements of people working hard within film and TV, from culturally diverse backgrounds, it is the only one of its kind in the UK. Hosting the ceremony will be Angelica Bell and Michael Underwood who started their careers as lovable children’s TV presenters and have impressively moved into the mainstream to work on programmes like the ‘The One Show’ and ‘British Soap Awards’, respectively. The star studded awards begins at 6.30pm and in the past it has bestowed accolades upon Hollywood heavyweights Morgan Freeman and Danny Glover, as well as homegrown talent like Noel Clarke, Naomi Harris and David Oyelowo. The evenings host, who married last year and are expecting the first child together in December, will introduce the live entertainment of the night, followed by an after show Ball.
The Screen Nation Film & TV Awards have proudly announced that this year’s Honorary Awards will be awarded to legendary broadcaster Sir Trevor MacDonald OBE, leading African-American actor Clarke Peters will receive the Edric Connor Inspiration Award, the UK’s only black stunt woman Amanda Foster will have the ‘Outstanding Contribution Award’ and other top awards will given out to much deserving winners.
Founded by Charles Thompson MBE, an independent film producer with over 20 years experience in the UK film & TV industry, the creative team behind the nomination process and ceremony also includes presenter Josie d’Arby, in the role of Event Director. Having been involved for many years, she commented:
‘I am extremely proud to now be leading the event from behind the scenes and working hard to take forward the message of promoting cultural diversity. It’s going to be another great night!’
The full list of categories and nominations will be revealed in September, with highlights of the ceremony to be screened OH TV (Sky199) in late October.
For more information please visit the event website, ‘like’ the Screen Nation Awards page on Facebook or follow on Twitter @ScreenNation.
Words by Catherine Ababio