The Light WithIn: A Special Premiere for a Special Film

Last night was a special treat. I had the privilege of attending the closed premiere screening of The Light WithIn: An Irish Quaker Story at the Dunamaise Arts Centre in Laois. As unit stills photographer, this was a deeply meaningful moment.

Stepping into the lobby, it was a thrill to see my photography transformed into the film’s official poster! People were posing with it, taking selfies – a testament to the image’s impact. As we entered the auditorium, that same image, now even larger, filled the screen – a reminder of the journey about to unfold.

With my photo as a backdrop, we were treated to an introduction to the Laois Arts Council’s 2024 Bursary Award, followed by a look at the upcoming project from 2023 winners, Aisling Conroy and Yvonne Hennessy.

I was especially delighted to discover that the evening would be a double-feature! Before The Light Within, we were treated to a screening of Denis McArdle’s previous film, Silver Lining. Postponed due to Covid, this was its first showing, and it left a strong impression. Silver Lining is a beautiful story exceptionally well-produced.

Finally, the moment had arrived. The lights dimmed and The Light WithIn unspooled on the big screen. It was a moving experience to see the culmination of our hard work presented so beautifully. Seeing the cast and crew again, those I’d worked closely with and others I hadn’t overlapped with on set like sound mixer Graham Tully (who also hails from Skerries), made it even more special.

To my surprise and delight, David Butler announced my recent win for “Best Cinematic Image” at the Waterford International Film Festival near the start of the Q&A. The film still that won was also used for The Light Within’s key art and poster. The audience’s applause was so heartwarming! I want to emphasize that this recognition feels like a shared prize – a win for our whole production, testament to the talent and dedication of everyone involved.

The Q&A provided fantastic insights into the film’s creation. Afterwards, a kind local Quaker approached me to congratulate me on the poster image, featuring Finnuala Gillen exiting the Quaker graveyard. He praised it highly, expressing how meaningful it was for him and mentioned it reminded him to book his own plot there for his final resting place. I thanked him for his kind words and agreed that it’s a truly beautiful spot to be laid to rest.

The entire night was a celebration of artistry and community. My thanks to the Laois Arts Council, Denis McArdle, the whole The Light WithIn team, and everyone who made this memorable event possible.