Belfast Revisited - Giving Young People a Voice

My name is Susan Rosenkranz – and I have been fortunate to live my life as a writer, a filmmaker, a historian, and a teacher.

I have just begun work on an independent documentary that is the culmination of years of passionate work and study. I am asking for your help in funding this new film that is so very close to my heart.

In 1992, at the height of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, I traveled to Belfast to produce my first documentary, "Circus of Hope." The film told the story of the Belfast Community Circus Camp and its essential role in helping Protestant and Catholic children turn away from violence, bridge the sectarian divide, and embrace life.

For the past three decades, I have watched from afar the changing developments in Belfast – from the 1994 ceasefire and the 1998 Good Friday Agreement to the growth of Belfast as a magnetic tourist destination. Always, I promised myself, I would return.

This year, I kept that promise, returning to Belfast to begin production on a new documentary focusing on the youth of Belfast – those who survived the Troubles, as well as a new generation of “ceasefire babies.” In a single week of filming, we were able to capture poignant and powerful stories of how young people lived their lives and found their voices – moving forward with the help of the arts, sports, education, friendships, and family. And never losing their sense of humor!

But we have only just begun to capture these amazing tales of courage and imagination. These are stories that must be told – not only to help us understand the unique story that is Belfast, but also to shed light on the challenges facing young people trapped in conflict states around the world.

With your help, my crew and I can return to Belfast and continue filming these extraordinary stories – interviewing journalists and historians; politicians and social workers; artists and community leaders; and especially giving young people this moment to speak up, speak out, and share their fears and their dreams.

Your contribution of any size will help me reimburse the initial costs of filming in March, as well as cover the costs of our upcoming Belfast film shoot. Those costs will include crew payments; renting cameras, lighting, and sound equipment; as well as transportation, food, and lodging. Any amount you can donate will be invaluable – and will bring a smile to the face of this writer, filmmaker, historian, and teacher. Thank you so very much for your contribution!