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ADFC to host The Circle Conference 2009 next October

CANNES - The Circle Conference, one of The Abu Dhabi Film Commission’s (ADFC) initiatives announced today its third annual event which will - for the first time - be held in association with Imagenation Abu Dhabi.

The Circle Conference will bring together entertainment industry leaders during the Middle East International Film Festival (MEIFF) in Abu Dhabi on October 9 - 11.

The Circle Conference will include industry panel discussions, master-classes for filmmakers, informal collaboration lunches, round tables and the “Shasha Grant” Competition - a screenwriting contest designed to identify, develop and launch the career of filmmaking talent.

The Circle conference is part of the ADFC’s commitment to build Abu Dhabi as a flourishing filmmaking region, new media hub and create additional initiatives and lucrative incentives for industry executives to attend and exchange their valuable knowledge and experience.

H.E. Mohamed Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of Imagenation Abu Dhabi and Director General of ADACH said: “Here in Abu Dhabi, we all work towards a common goal - that of establishing and nurturing a successful film industry in the Abu Dhabi. We want to maximize the benefits that our guests from around the world, and our young filmmakers from this part of the world, gain from attending The Circle Conference. With this association we are strengthening our efforts and moving ahead toward achieving our objectives”.

Last year the Abu Dhabi Authority for Cultural and Heritage (ADACH) hosted the second edition of The Circle Conference, bringing together a range of industry experts from the international entertainment community including actor/producer/director Antonio Banderas, and directors Spike Lee and McG.

David Shepheard, Director of Abu Dhabi Film Commission added: “The Abu Dhabi Film Commission is delighted to be working with Imagenation Abu Dhabi and MEIFF to host the third annual Circle Conference. This successful programme is just one of many film-making and training initiatives ADFC will be announcing over the coming months”.

Edward Borgerding, CEO of Imagenation Abu Dhabi, said: “We are committed to supporting Middle East filmmakers and Arabian film production to help cultivate a new generation of talented Arab filmmakers. The Circle Conference is a substantial initiative that mirrors our own vision and we are delighted to be working closely with the ADFC to help it achieve its endeavors.”