“These Boots Were Made For Walking”
(Working title)
52 min documentary for broadcast
Director/Cameraman/Editor:
Michal Wozniak
Wozzi Productions
Fashion Photographer:
Zahnell van Zyl de Abreu
Shirley Beste aka Shawn van Huyssteen
Introduction
Known for the best legs in the business, the social satirist Shirley Beste worked her way from trailer park trash, showgirl extraordinaire to ambassador of South Africa.
Pro-actively involved Shirley made history by being the first lady to climb Table Mountain in high heels on the 14th February 2007, an epic journey of four and a half hours to the highest point (Maclear's Beacon, 1085m) all in aid to raise funds and education for the Heart of Healing (now Global Heart), an organization giving her the transparency and accountability of a diverse portfolio of children in need.
In 2010, Shirley repeated her climb of Table Mountain, this time raising funds for Reach for a Dream Foundation in association with Spice4Life. With big clouds hanging around the mountain, rain and temperature of six degrees, Shirley not only climbed up but also had to climb down the mountain, as the cable car was non operational due to the weather conditions on the mountain..
The climb in 2010 was documented and edited to a short clip by well-seasoned cameraman/editor Michal Wozniak, Wozzi Productions Cape Town; Michal decided to tag along to the top of Table Mountain to see if Shirley could really climb a mountain in high heels…
Shirley has now decided on a new challenge. Conquering Mount Kilimanjaro in high heels!
She is going to climb the awe inspiring 5895m in 6 days – approximately 6 hours a day in heels!
Why Kilimanjaro?
Shirley’s vision is to inspire, empower and contribute to the development of the future of children, in Southern Africa and globally.
She embraces the fight for human rights of people who are HIV positive.
By climbing Kilimanjaro, Shirley wants to inspire others, by proving that mountains can be conquered, whether they are physical or psychological.
Her aim is to achieve the summit of Kilimanjaro in October 2013, and to raise a target of ZAR 589 500 and above for Reach For A Dream Foundation.
Why a documentary?
The video clip of the climb of Table Mountain in 2010 was never planned. It was a spontaneous moment with the camera and a bit of fun in the editing, but what materialized with the footage was that the thought of documenting Shirley’s Kilimanjaro climb could be realized into a full-length documentary.
A documentary following Shirley to the top of Kilimanjaro in high heels would be more than just an adventure. For Shirley, the climb is more than just getting to the top of a rock in a frock. It’s about conquering the mountains of life, overcoming obstacles and to show others that no matter what challenges they may have, there is always a cloud with a silver lining if one has a dream in your heart.
How the documentary will look?
Imagine “Priscilla Queen of the Desert” mixed with “Seven Years in Tibet”, that is what “These Boots Were Made For Walking” will look like.
The climb is scheduled for October 2013, which in this writing moment gives us plenty of time to plan and to prepare and seek sponsorship.
Shirley will be undergoing training to get into shape for the climb, something that will be important to document. To fully understand Shirley’s character, and the person behind Shirley, it is important to show her in other situations of her normal life i.e at work, on stage, in meetings, out mingling, just enjoying some time off with friends. Although October 2013 is more than a year away and around the corner, the journey to the top has already started and it is important to start documenting as soon as possible.
In a year, Shirley will be a different person to who she is today. By having regular interviews with her throughout this time, the collected will show the development of her character.
Shirley will also have access to her own handycam, to keep a video diary for when she will feel the need to unload.
The collected material, from the prep to the completed climb, will be intercut in the final edit to give it an interesting look and feel, and to not keep it in a linear story telling format where you see the journey from A to B. Using the answers in the interviews, the story will narrate itself, helping the audience understand Shirley’s character, cause and the colorful people around her that has made her dream come true.
What will be required?
As an experienced cameraman, Michal Wozniak has worked on most cameras creating various projects. Different projects require different cameras most suitable for the situation and conditions.
The key to the Kilimanjaro climb is to keep it light. Same equipment can be used to document the material before the climb.
Suggested equipment list:
- Light camera (Canon XA10 (preferred), Canon D60). An additional camera for Shirley’s video diary, small handycam (or second Canon XA10)
- Onboard shotgun mic
- Lapel mic
- Light tripod
- Lightsource (small LED panel)
- Enough batteries
- Enough recording media
- Laptop or iPad to offload media
- Lacie Rugged hard drives for backup and storage
Post Production
Post production of the collected material will be carried out by Wozzi Productions as it is filmed throughout the year, to have the bulk of the work completed and ready. Once the material from the climb is “in the can”, it can easily be fitted into the missing gaps.
The offline will be done at the office of Wozzi Productions-Cape Town, however, the online will have to be taken to a post production house for grading and final mix which we currently seek sponsorship for.
“These Boots Were Made For Walking” on the big screen?
Shirley’s climb to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro in high heels is an adventure many would be interested in seeing. For those who cannot join Shirley and her team physically, a documentary is the closest they will get to climb the mountain with her and seeing a pair of heels larger than life on the big screen.
Shirley has the determination to achieve her goal and it is important to document this to share with others.
She has already proven that she can conquer two mountain climbs in heels. For visual proof:
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DREAM TEAM BIOGRAPHIES
DREAM CLIMBER ONE:
MICHAL Wozniak
“If a picture says more than a thousand words, imagine how much a motion picture can tell!”
Born in 1982 in Poland but raised in Sweden, Michal Wozniak, discovered his passion for film and television when he was exploring future careers, looking for a high school program. The three years at MediaGymnasiet in Stockholm, Sweden, gave him the ability to take his written storytelling to a visual level, as well as giving him base knowledge about the media industry. To expand on his knowledge, Michal moved to Sydney, Australia in 2006 where he completed a Bachelor of Creative Technology at JMC Academy, majoring in Digital Film & Television Production.
From commercials to music videos to short films, Michal Wozniak has done it all. However, his passion lies with documentaries as he has a great interest for people and different cultures. His first one, Same Blood Different Skin was so successful it led to the next project, a trip to the bush in Western Australia for the filming of Dreaming in Kalumburu.
His storytelling through motion visual images is his greatest asset, which can be seen in all his projects. He has been working with clients such as Quay Appointments, NSW Reconciliation Council and Rollerblading Sydney, creating various projects, all with a different story to tell.
In 2010 Michal Wozniak moved to Cape Town, South Africa where he has been working on more exciting projects. For samples of his work, please visit www.wozziproductions.com
DREAM CLIMBER Two: Shirley Beste
A “man made” woman always in the public eye.
The social satirist, who has worked herself from trailer park trash, showgirl extraordinaire to ambassador of South Africa.
”Known for the best legs in the business”
Born Shawn van Huyssteen in 1968 and at the tender age of six while his parents left the house he placed on all the records of his father and created exceptional woman from his mother’s wardrobe...before they returned to discover the little girl they always wished for.
Twenty one years later after travelling Europe and learning performance art from top female impersonators in London he returned to his mother country with himself and alter ego Shirley Beste.
Created and inspired after his icon Shirley Valentine.
The woman of love who discovered her true self worth...a dreamer as well as a doer.
To live life one has to move out of ones comfort zone to grow. Share your experiences and dreams to benefit causes close to your heart.
With a diverse multi cultural understanding and being well travelled Shawn has put Shirley’s talents to good use to help others in need and to leave them inspired. The challenge of Kilimanjaro was the initial goal and this he pursues in the 2013 after having realised it takes more than three mountains to climb (two climbs on Table Mountain in heels and a third his health)
AGE 43…The ‘man made’ woman
who will make it to the top of Kilimanjaro...
in heels!
DREAM CLIMBER THREE: Clarise McQueen
18 Years ago the world gave birth to Clarise McQueen, a person whom has endured a walk of life till where she found herself today…standing at the foot of Kilimanjaro and the dream challenge in heels. Discovered by Shirley as an exceptional motivational team member and speaker.
During the years she has endeavored on her life adventure growing each moment becoming socially known for her sparkle and spontaneous behavior.
“Don’t forget if there is no glitter or her boots then it’s not Clarise…”
With being one of a kind …and an ex navy seal, she’s lived life to the fullest through every occasion, a bit of a rebel, but a kindred spirit who will always takes any challenge handed to her and makes a magical adventure out of it.
Her motto in life…
I am what I am… and she lives up to it!
In all quietness she has a soft heart for those around her, and renderers her support to those in need without any question. Always walking the extra mile for the people close to her heart, and supporting the cause C.H.O.C. and all the children out there.
Having an eye for fashion, she lives by her own rules…
AGE 34…BULLETPROOF! ... (Can she make it?)
DREAM CLIMBER FOUR: Zahnell van Zyl de Abreu
Fashion Photographer:
“Passion for photography is not what you learn by studying photography, but is born in the heart of how you see that special moment.”
To FREEZE that MOMENT in TIME forever inspired me to take my photography to higher levels.
A passion for fashion and nature gives me the drive and inspiration to be unique and creative experience and enjoy the expression on people’s faces when they see themselves through my eyes and camera lens.
Having had a passion for photography, I studied at Vega Advertising School in Cape Town to bring the love and technical understanding together.
A challenge always gives me more inspiration and that is why Kilimanjaro is giving me the opportunity to be able again, to make valuable memories for the world to see!
Common love and interest for photography made the team complete when I met Jose, and working together gave my passion greater meaning. Helping, supporting and sharing a passion makes the end product so much more worth the while.....
DREAM CLIMBER FIVE: Jose De Abreu
Project Manager and experienced climber.
Born in 1968 and raised in Cape Town South Africa, I studied Mechanical Engineering and opened a Rope Access Company to service various companies with rope access projects.
I have done various projects in many African countries, putting up towers in remote areas. This is where I got connected with the spirit of the outdoor adventure and Africa.
I met photographer, Zahnell on the 24th July 2009 and discovered that we had a common interest, Photography! We got married 11th September 2011 and have been her assistant for many photo shoots, but Kilimanjaro is going to be the ultimate challenge and adventure for both of us!
DREAM CLIMBER FIVE:
Gunther Oliver Dippenaar
Highly qualified and globally experienced wellness expert whose knowledgeable expertise is highly regarded within the local arena. Qualifications include the acclaimed Austrian Diploma in Health and Skincare whilst his keen interest in sharing his knowledge has lead to part-time lecturing and writing for a well known men's magazine. He has also been instrumental in setting up several local spas as well as a stint abroad, working for the Hilton Group. His specialties include sports massage and alternative therapies.
Media Coverage:
Main media platforms Yahoo, Google News and AOL will be used with social network interface Face Book and Twitter. SEO is in place to drive network.
Parallel drive:
· CNN.com
· BBC News
· Fox News
· Mashable UK
· msnbc
· MacSurfer’s Headline News
· Guardian Unlimited
· JournalismNet
· World News Australia
· The Toronto Star
· Spice4Life
· Reach For A Dream Foundation
· Dance4Life
Total viewership 10 million and above. Spread of 90% internet based.
Proposed Route:
Marangu Route
Marangu is also known as the “Coca Cola” route. This is the most straightforward route and least success rate on the mountain. The Marangu route takes you through the forests, moorlands and then across the Saddle (a high-altitude desert) to Kibo. The path to the summit is a zigzag route up steep scree, which makes a slower ascent than on the other routes. Marangu is also the only route on which you ascend and descend along the same path. It is also the only route providing huts.
Day 1: Marangu Gate – Mandara Hut
1,860m (6,102ft) – 2,705m (8,875ft)
Meet our guide and start hiking from Marangu Gate. Hike through a fascinating rain forest to Mandara Hut. Hike to Maundi Crater (45 min from Mandara hut) or rest upon arrival.
Overnight at Mandara Hut, Average hiking time: 6 hours
Day 2: Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut
2,705m (8,875ft) – 3,719m (12,201ft)
After breakfast we start hiking to Horombo Hut. Leave the last glade of forest and follow the gently ascending path through the open alpine moorland. “Pole pole” (slowly slowly in Swahili) is the order of the day while enjoying the flora along the way. Remember, the slower you go, the more easily your body adjusts to the change in altitude. Giant Senecios stands tall along the path. Kibo and Mawenzi Peak can be seen on a clear day.
Overnight at Horombo Hut, Average hiking time: 6 hours
Day 3: Acclimatization Day
We stay extra day at Horombo to acclimatize to the altitude and film team building.
Overnight at Horombo Hut.
Day 4: Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut
3,719m (12,201ft) – 4,713m (15,463ft)
We hike slowly to Kibo Hut and leave the moorland and enter the Saddle (an alpine desert) past giant lobelia and walk to Kibo Hut. The saddle is a flat area, but we will not be tempted to increase our pace. We take it easy. If altitude has not affected us so far, this is where it will begin to kick in. We will have a packed lunch along the way.
Overnight at Kibo Hut, Average hiking time: 7 hours
Day 5: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (SUMMIT!!)
4,713m (15,463ft) – 5,895m (19,341ft)
Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut
5,895m (19,341ft) – 3,719m (12,201ft)
We have a “Walk-up” call just before midnight to start our final ascent to the summit. We will follow a zigzag path similar to the skeleton gorge on Table Mountain with loose scree to reach Gillman’s Point (5,685 m) at sunrise. The only thing we will notice for the next few hours is the feet of the person in front of us and the torches attached to everyone’s head.. The path from Kibo to Gillman’s is the most demanding section of the whole climb. It quickly becomes a real test of endurance. Near Gillman’s the scree comes to an end and huge boulders loom above us.
Continue another 2 hours to the roof of Africa, Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). SUMMIT!!!!! The awe highest peak in Africa. Descent to Kibo with a short rest before we continue to Horombo Hut.
Overnight at Horombo Hut, Average hiking time to the summit: 7 Hours, Average descending time: 5 hours
Day 6: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate
3,719m (12,201ft) – 1,860m (6,102ft)
Descent to Marangu Gate. It is easier to go down than up. Enjoy lunch at Mandara Hut, Average hiking time: 6 hours
*Hiking times are estimated only, but have been calculated to give the Dream Team a comfortable pace throughout the hike.”
SEE YOU ON THE TOP OF
KILIMANJARO!
AN EVENT NOT TO BE MISSED!
GO SHIRLEY, CLARISE
AND THE DREAM TEAM!
Guinness Book of World Records is reviewing it
as a world record attempt…
“…so many people live within unhappy circumstances and yet will not take the initiative to change their situation because they are conditioned to a life of security, conformity, and conservatism, all of which may appear to give one peace of mind, but in reality nothing is more damaging to the adventurous spirit within a man than a secure future. The very basic core of a man’s living spirit is his passion for adventure. The joy of life comes from our encounters with new experiences, and hence there is no greater joy than to have an endlessly changing horizon, for each day, to have a new and different sun. ”Chris McCandless, ‘Into the Wild’
If you would like to sponsor in any way shirleybeste@gmail.com
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