Jo Buckman

At its core, Starring Esther is a poignant reminder of what happens when we walk away from our dreams.

Esther is a young, promising soprano who steps onto the stage to deliver the performance that will make her career. Except: Esther isn't young or a soprano; Esther's a dementia patient in a nursing home. As it turns out, Esther's lack of confidence led her to give up on her aspirations and choose the quiet, suburban life with her husband, Jim. As her mind succumbs to the disease, Esther relives the moment she could have had it all over and over again. 

A touching drama with humorous moments, Starring Esther examines the comedy and the tragedy of getting old, and realising that the life you've lead isn't actually the one you dreamed of.

"Starring Esther" is based on a true story; that of my former Mother-in-Law. She'd been in hospital for a few weeks and was steadily going downhill. My Then-Husband and I arrived to find her, in her hospital gown, standing at the edge of the bed, arms outstretched, ready for "the choir to perform". She couldn't remember the song list and demanded music sheets. The idea grew from there.

This film will be dedicated to her.

Starring Esther is partially funded by RMIT Union Arts Council.  Additional funding will help enormously in making Esther's dream come to life on the big screen. Funds will go towards camera equipment, location hire, lighting, editing and colour grading.

All of the crew involved are working on a voluntary basis.

The focus is to deliver exceptionally high production values, which will enhance the story and finally give Esther her moment on the big, world stage. Any support you can offer will be greatly appreciated.

If you have any questions about the project (or would like to see a script), feel free to email me: [email protected].  I will post answers to any general questions I receive fairly regularly.

Thanks for your time!