Leah’s Leopard – Colchester Zoo

Colchester Zoo in Essex closed through spring and summer 2020 during the Covid lockdown. With operating costs of more than £25,000 a day to keep the animals safe and well, and with visitor admissions as its main income, the impact was immediate and severe.

Deadline Communications wanted to put our filmmaking skills to good use, so we offered our support on a pro bono basis. We reached out to fellow creatives and quickly developed a concept designed to generate excitement and encourage people back for the zoo’s reopening on 18 June. The film was planned, shot and delivered in just five days, using a minimal crew and a Covid-safe approach throughout to allow for social distancing.

Huge thanks to the collaborators who helped make the project possible: Louis Gaston for sound design, Oliver Bagnall for the original music, Daisy (our brilliant young actress), Jason George of 360skymedia for the aerial footage, and Charlotte Curtis, Rachael Beauchamp, David Streames and David White for their support along the way. Special thanks as well to my Deadline co-directors Peter Curtis and Jim Cogan.

It was a privilege to use our skills in a practical way during a difficult period, and we wish Colchester Zoo, and zoos across the UK, every success in the months and years ahead.