I was invited to Lord of the Rings premiere in 2001, and it was then I met the delightful Richard Taylor (now Sir Richard), who is at the helm of the legendary Weta Workshop, with a portfolio stretching from here to Middle Earth.
Richard, a gracious and charismatic man, with a fabulous sense of humour, told me how Thunderbirds had inspired his work and how much he loved all of our programmes. I was equally as in awe as I had already seen some of the magnificent work from his studio, and was really impressed with its imagery, Richard and his wife Tania have built this world leading design and effects empire from humble beginnings in their flat in Wellington, New Zealand.
In the past 20 years, Weta Workshop has been at the helm of the imagery of blockbusters like Avatar, The Hobbit, Chappie and now, to my utter delight, the new animated series of Thunderbirds.
Sir Richard has also supported us with our new Series ‘The Last Station’ now in development, which he has described as ‘groundbreaking and of its time’.
As you all know, we are now working toward May 6 when we will be hosting The Pink FAB Ball for Breast Cancer Care. Sir Richard has once again donated an incredible auction prize, which we have outlined below:
Win a virtual meet-and-greet with five-time Academy Award-winner, Weta Workshop CEO and Co-founder, Sir Richard Taylor!
You’ll sit down with Richard for an exclusive hour-long Skype chat or video call. In this one-on-one chat you’ll be able to pick Richard’s brains about all things Weta Workshop, and what day-to-day life is like creating imaginary worlds here on the Miramar Peninsula.
Also included is a personalised virtual walk-through of selected parts of Weta Workshop, helmed by Richard himself. You might even come face to face with a troll (or three!)
This is a unique ‘money can’t buy’ experience for film fans of all ages.
Thank you so much Richard, this really is an incredible donation and opportunity, and will raise so much for our chosen Charity – Breast Cancer Care.
