R31 has had a fairly busy run of production since its inception in 2013. However, in the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak this has stopped. While there’s plenty of post production and development that can continue during this time of self-isolation and group avoidance, all filming at R31 is now at a standstill. While Manitoba has particularly low numbers for the virus, prevention and risk reduction is simply the right thing to do as well as legally prudent.
For R31 this means many things are affected right now as the beginning of March started with interviews in Los Angeles for the second part of our Faith In Imagination Series, The Science Fiction Makers.The Science Fiction Makers (yet to be officially announced) was recently green lit and began pre-production in January with interviews scheduled to take place throughout March across North America. After our first trip, to Los Angeles in mid-March, it was clear that the situation was rapidly changing. We were hopeful about upcoming trips to the mid-west USA and New York City, but its become clear that we will be in a lock down mode for some time. R31 has currently suspended all travel for the foreseeable future.
Additional to suspension of R31 travel, we are holding off of all screenings of our films, which includes Volendam: A Refugee Story in April. This was to be hosted by the Mennonite Heritage Centre at Canadian Mennonite University. We know this is a huge disappointment to many families and students but when things change this too will be rescheduled.
We hope and pray for a resolution to this pandemic but in the meantime we do what we can.
Stay tuned for more information and announcements.