'The Straad Players' is an interesting project that is being developed in the region by Steve Thompson of the Institute of Digital Innovation at the University Of Teesside.

Essentially, it involves creating and performing plays in a virtual world (2^nd Life) and making films. It allows participants to simulate many of the activities involved in creating productions and movies without the costs and many of the difficulties encountered in the real world. All of the following roles can be accommodated: Actors, set designers, set builders, costume designers, script writers, camera crew, editors, post production, audio technicians, voice characterisations, director, musicians.

They are looking for groups of community learners and tutors (from any curriculum area) to become actively involved in the project. You can watch a promotional video and find out more at http://www.tvcm.co.uk/index.php/straad

Please reply to Paul Miller at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it if you are interested, or know of someone who might be interested in getting involved with this project which is merrily pushing the boundaries of e-Learning with digital media. Basic ICT skills would be required, but no experience of 2nd Life or play production is needed as everyone can start from the very beginning.