A top creative expert for the Universal Orlando Resort in Florida, Rick Spencer, aims to inspire audiences with an evening of short films and storytelling at Queen Margaret University on 23 March.

The American author, producer and director will present a series of award-winning short films whilst also shedding light on the creative process – from idea, to paper, to screen.

In recent years, Rick Spencer has provided scripting and show direction for the grand opening of the ‘Wizarding World of Harry Potter’ and ‘Despicable Me – the Minion Mayhem’.  His credits also include the feature length motion picture ‘Thunderborn’ and the television series ‘Shining Time Station’ starring ‘Thomas The Tank Engine’.

As well as being Creative Manager for the Universal Orlando Resort, Rick is author of five novels: Icebound – The Viking Cipher, All that Glitters, The Moneymaster, Terror Merchants and The Devil’s Mirror. His private clients include Paul McCartney’s MPL Communications, Time Warner and National Public Radio.

The event at QMU, which is open to staff, students, film lovers and the general public, promises to be entertaining, informative and inspirational. Rick said: “If you’ve ever wondered where filmmakers find their concepts… how they develop them…and finally how they create successful productions, this is an opportunity not to be missed.”

Richard Bent, Senior Lecturer in Business Enterprise and Management at QMU, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the QMU community, film lovers and aspiring creatives to learn from one of America’s most experienced and creative talents. Rick has 18 years of experience with one of the world’s leading entertainment and media companies. Some of the stories will be poignant, others funny and one or two will touch your heart, so people can expect inspirational content which is thought provoking and sure to keep us talking for days.”

Richard concluded: “Rick made his first public appearance in Scotland in 2015 when he presented a lecture at QMU to a packed house. We are honoured that he has agreed to return to the University to share his experience of the creative industries with our students. We look forward to welcoming the QMU community, and new visitors to the University, to this special evening event on Thursday 23 March.

The lecture begins at 6.30pm in the Halle Lecture Theatre at QMU. The event is free but ticketed. Tickets will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. To book your place, E: events@qmu.ac.uk or call on T: 0131 474 0000.