Press release from The Lantern Group
Sandra Levy, CEO of the Australian Film Television and Radio School today announced the appointment of leading Australian producer John Maynard to the position of Head of Producing at the national school.
“As one of this country’s most successful and prolific producers John will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to our students in both producing and distribution. I am excited by the possibilities for our students with John’s guidance,” said Ms Levy today.
John is well known as a producer with an eye for talent, producing the debut feature films from directors Jane Campion (SWEETIE), Vincent Ward (VIGIL, THE NAVIGATOR), Rowan Woods (THE BOYS), Robert Connolly (THE BANK,) and Richard Roxburgh (ROMULUS, MY FATHER).
“I’m immensely excited by the challenge of bringing my experience as a working producer and distributor to the new AFTRS – embarking on a creative adventure with a new generation of filmmakers," said John today.
The Graduate Diploma in Producing was recently restructured as a part-time course to enable students to develop real life experience, real life projects and real life working relationships supported by targeted classes.
The course allows students to specialise in one of three streams: narrative drama (film or television); factual/reality, including documentary; or television formats & entertainment, enhanced by advanced skills and knowledge in creative leadership and applied storytelling principles – brought together through the creation and development of market-ready projects.
“John’s eye for talent and projects, honed by his extensive experience as a distributor, will ensure that the course stays relevant, focused and at a very high level, with practice at its core,” said Graham Thorburn, Director, Screen Content.
www.aftrs.edu.au