The Inspiration
Inspired students from the Digital Journalism, Podcasting, and Radio course at Kerry College/Radio Kerry have created a wonderful fairytale story named “The Hidden Light” with the help of courageous local children and Kerry Ambassador, Edel Lawlor a Child and Adolescence Psychotherapist.
The Fairytale
“The Hidden Light” tells the story of three young characters Cian, Fionnuala and Saoirse who are voiced by local courageous children Luke Feely, Fiadh Rose Higgins & Shonagh O' Sullivan each who have faced some of life’s toughest challenges. The story is aimed at helping children who might be going through something. It encourages adults and children to tackle difficult and life changing challenges through imagination and storytelling.
The story follows three characters as they take part in a local camp called Camp Crogacht/Camp Bravery. During their time at camp the children embark on a magical journey searching for “The Hidden Light” that will lead them to a very special treasure. Throughout their quest they are guided by a Fairy named Pearl (voiced by Edel Lawlor) who helps the children tackle huge feats, all while meeting some of Kerry’s most infamous and majestic creatures along their journey.
Behind the Scenes
Speaking about the unique project, Edel Lawlor said: “I was thrilled to be invited to work with the students on this amazing project. I am a proud Kerry woman with a love of the kingdom. Seeing a decline in play post covid and in growing up in the digital age, I was happy to partake in this project to highlight the importance of storytelling, imagination and play for both adults and children.”.
Student Eimear Nagle had never worked with children before stating “It was amazing to see the resilience of the children first hand and to hear their stories of bravery. They were so creative, and I have learned so much from them.”
Supporting the Wonderful Fairytale
The story was broadcast on Radio Kerry in June and already has received huge praise and gratitude from schools and parents across the county. Speaking about the project Fiona Stack General Manager with Radio Kerry and fellow Kerry Ambassador said “The aim of the project was to create a story that could be readily available online and used in classroom or by families to help children going through personal challenges whether that be family, health, bullying or just changes in their lives. A special thank you to the students and children involved in the project."
The students are from the Digital Journalism, Podcasting, and Radio course with Kerry College. Kerry College offer Ireland's only full-time media course run in partnership with Radio Kerry. The course allows students train with radio production teams on live shows, work in a radio station for a minimum of 10 weeks. Along with attending industry-only events and awards.
