Manchester Essex High School Students Collaborate to Create Documentary Films

 

MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA– Students from Manchester Essex Regional High School (MERHS) recently premiered a series of short documentary films following a six-week collaboration with 1623 Studios, a Gloucester-based media team. Students from MERHS in Digital Photo 2 and Studio/Portfolio classes participated in six hour-long sessions led by professionals from 1623 Studios. During the sessions, students developed creative and technical skills through documentary storytelling. Students selected topics including the Essex Shipbuilding Museum, Captain Dusty’s Ice Cream (once a fresh fish and bait shop), and the history of Singing Beach and the Bath House. Working in small groups, they conducted research, wrote scripts, recorded voiceovers, and curated images and music to bring their stories to life. Using Adobe Premiere Pro, a high-level design platform, each group compiled its work into compelling short films that reflect aspects of their communities. MERHS instructors Andrew Lucas and Tamera Burns provided guidance and support throughout the production process, helping students refine their projects and deepen their understanding of documentaries. The program concluded with a screening event held at 1623 Studios, where parents, teachers and peers got to witness the hard work and thought put into the films. The event celebrated creative achievements and the collaborative partnership between the school and the studio. MERHS looks forward to continuing its partnership with 1623 Studios and expanding opportunities for students to engage in hands-on learning experiences. "This collaboration gave students an opportunity to experience film and media from concept to completion," said Art Teacher Tamera Burns. " They not only developed technical skills, but also learned how to connect with their community in meaningful and creative ways." The films are available for viewing on YouTube here. Film professionals from 1623 Studios working with MERHS students. (Photos Courtesy Andrew Lucas)