The 16th annual Cinemagic Los Angeles Showcase culminated this week in a dazzling evening of inspiration and critical fundraising, proving that young talent can indeed light up Hollywood. Held at the iconic Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows in Santa Monica, the red-carpet event celebrated the next generation of filmmakers while a sold-out silent auction raised vital funds for Cinemagic’s global youth programs.
The event, hosted by Cinemagic CEO Joan Burney Keatings MBE, drew a host of Hollywood notables including actresses Jaime King (Hart of Dixie, Black Summer) and Tara Reid (American Pie), alongside TV personality Amanza Smith (Selling Sunset). They joined filmmakers, dignitaries, and supporters in celebrating the transformative power of storytelling.
A Week of Immersive Industry Access
This star-studded finale marked the culmination of a week-long, immersive industry program. Organized by the award-winning Cinemagic Film and Television Festival for Young People in collaboration with Northern Ireland Connections, Screen Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Bureau, the initiative brought together aspiring creatives from Northern Ireland, Ireland, and Los Angeles.
Participants were granted unprecedented access to the heart of the industry, attending exclusive masterclasses and Q&A sessions at leading studios such as Warner Bros. Discovery, Paramount Studios, Universal Studios, Imagine Entertainment, and Artists Equity. Esteemed guest speakers included director Kirsten Sheridan, screenwriter Ryan Rowe, producers Jonathan Sanger and Alison Winters, broadcaster Ross King, and television executive James Longman. The program kicked off with a musical theatre workshop at Loyola Marymount University, supported by the LMU Irish Studies Program and CIACLA, culminating in the electrifying Cinemagic LA Showcase. The finale featured powerful short film screenings and dynamic live performances from talented young artists representing 18 different schools.
Fueling the Future: A Record-Breaking Silent Auction
A major highlight of the evening was the sold-out silent auction, which generated crucial funds to support Cinemagic’s charitable mission. Every item was successfully sold, thanks to the generous bidding from attendees.
Guests eagerly bid on an unforgettable Los Angeles Dodgers experience, featuring four field-level tickets and preferred parking. Luxury awaited at Sally Hershberger with a VIP salon experience, including a haircut by celebrity stylist Alex Osorio and custom color by Caleb Wilson. Movie buffs vied for a framed Bride Hard poster autographed by Rebel Wilson and Anna Camp. Comedy lovers scooped up ten VIP tickets to the iconic Laugh Factory with branded merchandise. Beauty enthusiasts indulged in a Cryoskin Neveskin Classic Facial from Pulsed Self Healing. High-end beverages were also coveted, with a trio of Le Bon Argent Champagne (Brut Black Label, Rosé, and Brut Gold Label) and a premium tequila set featuring the ultra-rare Purísima Blanco by Brent Hocking among the offerings.
“This week has been a true celebration of creativity, collaboration, and connection,” said Cinemagic CEO Joan Burney Keatings MBE. “We are beyond grateful for the generosity of our auction bidders and the commitment of our global partners who continue to make this experience possible for young people.”
Cinemagic: Opening Doors, Building Bridges
For over three decades, Belfast-based charity Cinemagic has been at the forefront of opening up the world of film and television to young people, especially those who might not typically envision a place for themselves within the industry. What began as a youth film festival in 1989 has blossomed into a global nonprofit, providing hands-on mentorship, production opportunities, and technical training to thousands each year across Dublin, London, Los Angeles, and the Middle East. Participants don’t just observe; they pitch stories, direct scenes, edit footage, and leave with real-world credits on completed projects.
Ciara McKinney of Northern Ireland Connections underscored the impact: “The LA Showcase empowers youth to share their talent with the world. Supporting this event helps open doors and build bridges that last a lifetime.” Richard Cushnie, Director of the Northern Ireland Bureau North America, highlighted the growing opportunities: “As Studio Ulster launches in Northern Ireland, programs like Cinemagic show young creatives what’s possible in film, TV, and gaming on a global scale.” Désirée Finnegan, CEO of Fís Éireann / Screen Ireland, called the initiative “transformative,” adding, “Cinemagic provides young people with real industry exposure and invaluable cultural exchange. We are proud to support such a meaningful platform.”
The overwhelming success of Cinemagic LA 2025 was made possible through the crucial support of ELMA (European Languages and Movies in America), The Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, CIACLA, and Loyola Marymount University.
The red carpet and celebrity presence undoubtedly set a glamorous tone, but the true spotlight remained firmly on the work created by the students—and the profound impact it had on everyone who witnessed it. In a world where opportunity often depends on connections or geography, Cinemagic continues to level the playing field, proving that talent is everywhere, and all it needs is a chance to be seen.
