AURA: A Safe Space Horror is a youth-led film-making project centering around a group of friends with a deep appreciation of horror, karaoke and each other. It was made in collaboration with the LGBTQ+ Foxbar Youth Hub and their youth workers, all of whom helped devise, perform and shoot the project through sheer determination and a DIY approach.
The resulting 30 minute film is an ode to friendship, a love letter to karaoke and a window into the vibrant lives of those who made it. It is an honest and endearing depiction of how vital these services are for young people who face everyday barriers in working creatively and sharing their voice. Voice itself became an essential component of the work, with the group's love of song becoming their strongest power in the face of creative and logistical challenges.
With help of choreographer Bex Anson, and two highly committed youth workers, Amy Small and Frazer McEwing, we created a surreal and playful horror story littered with references to Greek mythology and the group’s fascination with the underworld.
This project was completed with the support of Youthlink and Creative Scotland.
The soundtrack was composed and recorded on the Pollokshaws Wurlitzer with the help of Holly Jane Francis and The Scottish Cinema Organ Trust.
Laser design and additional support from Libby Lobberson.
