From being home to HBO’s blockbuster Game of Thrones to EMMY® and BAFTA nominated Children’s animation, the region has world class facilities, a highly skilled workforce and global recognition. With the announcement that Belfast has approved planning for its third film studio at Belfast Harbour, it is no surprise that national and International clients such as Universal Pictures, BBC, SYFY and Disney have also chosen Northern Ireland for recent productions as they are spoilt for choice with the combination of facilities, people and ultra-high speed internet.
The flourishing animation sector is supported by specialised graduate and undergraduate courses in computer animation for games, VFX, feature and TV animation. Local company Sixteen South has earned over 50 major international awards including the prestigious Broadcast Award for its children’s animation series “Lily’s Driftwood Bay” which is shown in over 125 countries.
Meet our Ambassador Colin Williams, Creative Director of Sixteen
Colin is the founder and Creative Director of Sixteen South Television, making quality television for children all over the world. Colin’s shows are broadcast in over 100 countries, into over 300 million homes across the globe.
Sector expertise
Gaming and animation
- Gaming and mobile apps
- Kids 2D and CGI animation
- Original productions and service facilities
Mobile content
- Software and mobile apps designed to streamline business processes
- Digital marketing solutions
Digital and interactive
- Brand development
- Integrated marketing campaigns
- Music – Intellectual Property (IP) creation, recording and publishing
Digital media technology
- E-commerce
- Emotion AI solutions
- Sound signal processing technologies
- Conditional access systems for digital TV
E-learning
- Learning management systems
- Enterprise e-learning services
Film & TV production and post production
- Large scale production
- Factual TV
- Independent film
- Post production
Arts and Entertainment
Every night in Belfast you can find performances of all kinds in the bars and venues. From traditional Irish music to jazz, pop and rock, even our buskers draw a crowd and the streets are alive with tunes!
Some of NI’s best stars are filling stadiums across the globe, we’re proud to have given the world many superstars including Van Morrison, Snow Patrol, Two Door Cinema Club and James Galway.
When you visit the city, you’ll notice an abundance of sculpture and art throughout, from the Big Fish to the Beacon of Hope. We’re home to a wealth of local artisans producing everything from traditional giftware, Irish linen and glass to modern jewellery that has been crafted by the same artisans who created piece for Game of Thrones®
Our vibrant street art is showcased on weekly street art tours that tell the stories behind the ever changing spaces and places in the city. The award-winning MAC in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter is home to all kinds of exhibitions, theatre performances, experimental works and endless goings-on. It is a cultural hub and has quickly become a beacon for the ongoing regeneration of Belfast.
The legendary Ulster Hall was where Led Zeppelin played their classic Stairway to Heaven for the first time ever and The stunning Grand Opera House boasts the majestic Victorian main auditorium designed by renowned architect Frank Matcham.
Belfast is famous for its vibrant and colourful Festivals and Feiles, whether it’s international film, music, dance or literature, the city’s rich arts culture shines through when it comes to putting on a show.
Discover more about Belfast’s vibrant Arts and Entertainment here