Ipswich short film fundraiser unites local artists

Why it matters: The fundraiser, titled Bark, is raising funds for a short film of the same name, a tense story about three hunters in a woodland shelter whose moral convictions are tested. It is Reuben's first project since graduating, and he and producer Hal say their approach is about more than just filmmaking.

"The whole approach behind the project is to lift up the voices of local artists and make art for art's sake," said producer Hal. "We're already working with visual artists to make the project happen, so putting on a live music event felt like a natural next step."

The details: Three acts, all playing The Church for the first time, will take to the stage on Saturday, 4 April:

• The Bungees return to the scene in 2026 with their hybrid of rock, alternative, indie pop and psychedelic music.
• Fighting Steaks, hailing from mid-Suffolk, are a fuzz-tinged progressive psychedelic punk rock band.
• Ipswich singer-songwriter Harriet Cree brings what organisers describe as "good vibes and a powerful voice for the future of the local music scene."

For context: Reuben and Hal say they have previous experience organising similar events, with Hal having run a music fundraiser for a previous film, and both having organised events through a collaborative arts society at university in Bristol. The event is supported by Brighten the Corners.

The bottom line: Bark is as much about community as it is about cinema. It is a chance to support local filmmaking while enjoying a night of live music in one of Ipswich's most distinctive venues.

Doors open at 19:30 on Saturday, 4 April, with the night running until 23:00.

For updates on the film, follow @shortfilmbark on Instagram.

This article cost us ~£21 to produce

It's free for you to read thanks to the generous support of our partners.