Patron Cathrine Zeta Jones
'I am proud to be part of the Swansea Film Festival. It provides a great opportunity for the City and a showcase for local talent.
I feel the possibilities are endless as it gives local talent both in front and behind the camera the chance to express themselves creatively.
It also, more importantly, gives them the opportunity to show their work in an International arena.
It's a great boost for the City and everyone who lives here.
Keep up the good work...'
Catherine Zeta Jones
Vice President Michael Sheen
Accomplished British actor Michael Sheen was born in Newport, Gwent, South Wales on February 5, 1969 to Irene and Meyrick Sheen, a family with a history of theatrical performing. His great-great-grandmother was a lion tamer for Ringling Brothers Circus, his father is a professional Jack Nicholson personality, his cousin is a major star of the West End, and other relatives have taken part in amateur operatic productions. A love and skill for the theatre and performing is written within his genes.
Founding Patron Victor Spinetti
He sprang to international prominence in three Beatles' films in the 1960s, A Hard Day's Night, Help! and Magical Mystery Tour. He also appeared on one of The Beatles' Christmas recordings. The best explanation for this long-running collaboration and friendship might have been provided by George Harrison, who said, "You've got to be in all our films ... if you're not in them me Mum won't come and see them—because she fancies you." But Harrison would also say, "You've got a lovely karma, Vic." Sir Paul McCartney described Spinetti as "the man who makes clouds disappear".
Prof. Peter Stead - President
He has served on the Board of Sgrin, the Welsh Media Agency and chaired its Film Production Committee. He is an active member of the Institute of Welsh Affairs and is Chairman of the Board that is in the process of establishing the Dylan Thomas Prize.
Roy Noble OBE - Chairman
Aside from being Wales's foremost broadcaster he is a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF and a special envoy for the Welsh Tourist Board. Roy is the current Ambassador for the United Nations International Youth Movement and is involved in very many charities. In 2001 Roy was awarded an OBE for his charity work and still presents his own daily morning show on Radio Wales.
Arwel Richards - Festival Director
The founder of No 1 Promo, an Event Management and PR company, a leader in the field, Arwel brings his contacts and experience to the film festival. A keen sportsman he is a pioneer of the burgeoning Welsh polo scene and a fanatical rugby supporter.
On sabbatical to the project from one of the major sponsor organisations, Sian's expert knowledge in marketing and international relations will help establish the festival as a major calendar event. She will looking after areas formerly overseen by Mr Binda Singh. sian@swanseafilmfestival.com
Richard H Pritchard
Richard who has been involved in the arts and arts management for many years - mostly in his native Midlands and latterly London.
Matthew Cashmore BBC
Matthew re-joins the BBC from UBC Media, where developed a working commercial model for podcasting, and produced the podcasts for The Times, The Sun, The Telegraph and the major record labels. He's spoken at many conferences about the benefits of podcasting, and a more open community. In his past he has been the Development Producer for BBC English Regions - launching the 'Where I Live' sites, and before that .. he trained as a NURSE !
