National theatre company Bell Shakespeare announced the winners of the inaugural Bell Shakespeare Shorts Festival at an online awards ceremony on 12 August. The festival was open to primary and secondary school students Australia-wide, with students invited to make short films about or inspired by Shakespeare’s works. 

The star-studded judging panel included Artistic Director Peter Evans, Lisa McCune, Kate Mulvany and Will McDonald. Bell Shakespeare Artistic Director Peter Evans said the company was thrilled with the number and quality of submissions to the festival in its first year.

“I want to thank and congratulate all 74 entrants to the festival from across Australia. All films engaged with Shakespeare’s language, characters and stories in engaging and inventive ways. The decision-making process was highly enjoyable and incredibly competitive," he said.

The winning films can be viewed at bellshakespeare.com.au