British Animation Awards at Edge Hill University

Edge Hill University has been chosen to screen the best animation in Britain for a national competition.

The British Animation Awards (BAA) 2010 covers all aspects of the UK animation scene, from student work to commercials, children's entertainment, short and experimental art films, music videos, new technologies.

The University is one of 27 venues which will screen the Public Choice Programme - and unlike some venues, all the screenings are free. The category allows visitors to select their favourites from a fantastic array of animation films made over the past two years. Sponsors and contributors include Aardman Animation, the famed creators of Wallace and Grommit, as well as CBBC, C4 Digital Shorts and the UK Film Council.

The BAA screenings take place from 6:20pm to 8pm from Monday 8 February to Wednesday 10 February in the Studio Theatre at Edge Hill's Performing Arts Centre.

The University is no stranger to the animation film technique as it offers a popular BA Hons degree in the subject. Alex Jukes, Senior Lecturer in the Media Department of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, says being chosen to showcase the films is an exciting opportunity for the University.

He said: "The BAA organisers were looking for venues which were in under-represented areas and we were very keen to get involved. The University is a fantastic cultural venue, and is one of the few chosen BAA venues where screenings are free, highlighting our commitment to cultural inclusion

"The contributors and sponsors of the BAA are of a very high calibre - including companies like Nick Park's Aardman Animation. Our students will have the chance to see the latest and best animation in the UK - it is a stunning opportunity to for them to see this work first hand. It is also a great chance for the public to engage with us in our special 125^th anniversary year."

All are welcome; no booking is necessary. Call 01695 584534 for more information.