New Kosova Report

Fifth edition of Skena Up Closes

Thursday, 29 November 2007

Actors from Skena Up

On Wednesday evening the 5th edition of Skena Up , an International Student Film and Theatre Festival, closed.

Skena Up was founded by a group of student artists in October 2003 with the purpose of promoting artistic and professional values and also the partnership and the artistic commitment between Kosovo and other countries from around the world. The program of Skena Up Festival includes variety of student work in film and theater. Its mission is to bring the film and theatre student work in front of the general public and make it possible for them to join the network of producers, directors, writers, and actors from the local and international stage.

From the total of eight prizes awarded on Wednesday night, three went on the hands of Kosovars. Best Play was awarded to The Rest is Silence of Kosovo’s director Agon Myftari. Jury’s Special Prize for Film was handed to the director Amir Vitia for the film By the Lake.

Best Actor was recognized Kosovar actor Besnik Krapi, for his role in the play The Rest is Silence.

Prize Adriana Abdullahu, which is given to the best stage actress, was announced first. Kurd artist Shamal Amin announced the decision of the jury. This year this prize was handed to the actress from Albania Loredana Gjeqi.

G.J. Echterkampf announced the prize for the best animated film, which went to UK’s Jens Blank for The Moon Eclipse. For Best Drama Directing the prize was awarded to the Iranian Pajam Aziz for The Situation. Best Documentary Movie was won by Blood Brothers of Manara Livron of Israel. The Best Movie award was given to Leaving Love from American director Beau Yarow.

This edition of the festival was held in dedication to the renowned Kosovo director and actor Faruk Begolli. Until his death in August, Begolli served as the festival’s artistic director.