Kamran Zahid, a third year Acting student at Leeds Conservatoire, plays the lead role of Owain in a new film titled The Magician. As part of LEEDS 2023’s Awakening programme, award-winning theatre company Slung Low is premiering the film, with screenings at The Warehouse in Holbeck. The film is a collaboration between Slung Low, Leeds People’s Theatre and LEEDS 2023.
In this article, published in South Leeds Life, Director James Phillips describes the story:
“Set in a near-future Britain, where violence and civil war threaten to overturn a revolutionary government, our film follows a young man on a quest to find the only person who might have the knowledge to stop the burning and the hate.”
Kamran Zahid in The Magician. Photo credit: Slung Low
Alongside professional actors, a cast of over 200 Leeds citizens filmed scenes for The Magician at some of the region’s most impressive locations, including the Yorkshire Dales and Peak District. The film also featured The Holbeck, the oldest working men’s club in the country.
The film stands alone as a story itself but The Magician is the third instalment from Slung Low’s The Shining City Saga.
Kamran shared the following about playing the lead role of Owain:
“It was such an amazing opportunity to work with established actors who I could observe and draw from, as well as a crew who could advise and help me hone my craft. I can’t wait to see the finished film.”
The film was commissioned by LEEDS 2023 as part of its Year of Culture. CEO and Creative Director Kully Thiarai explained their involvement:
“Championing and shouting about the diversity and brilliance of our city is key to our mission, along with creating opportunities for everyone to participate in our Year of Culture. So, we knew we had to help make the film happen. The Magician is a brilliant celebration of all that makes Leeds such a vibrant city brimming full of talent, energy and emotion. We can’t wait for you to see it.”
Luminate Education Group, of which Leeds Conservatoire is a member, is a Gold Education Partner of LEEDS 2023.
The Magician will be screened on Friday 3 and Saturday 4 March at 7:30PM at Slung Low’s new venue, The Warehouse in Holbeck. Tickets are available via the Slung Low website, and the screenings are pay what you decide.
The film will be made available online later in March.
