Voice

This short documentary follows renowned blind jazz musician and vocal coach Caitlin Smith as she reflects on a life shaped by music, resilience, and a deep calling to help others find their voice. The piece will be an ode to her life, her music, and her purpose, which she often finds in helping others shine above herself. Through an intimate lesson with a nervous new student, Joel, we witness Caitlin’s gift for connection and transformation as she argues for the importance of self expression, song writing, and having a voice in the chaotic world we live in.

We’re crowdfunding to help bring this inspiring story to the screen, covering the costs for equipment, transport,  catering and distribution so Caitlin’s voice  and story can reach far beyond the walls of her studio.

• Joel Bennett – Director & Participant – Brings the personal connection to Caitlin through his role as a student in the film, guiding the creative vision.
• Daniel Ball – Cinematographer – Combines artistry and precision to capture the visuals that will bring Caitlin’s voice, story, and world to life.

• Will Maloney – Producer – Keeps the project moving, handles logistics, and ensures Caitlin’s story is told with care and impact.

  Our creative practice is built on authenticity, collaboration, and a love for storytelling. We value real moments  and positive energy on set. 

We’re raising funds to cover the essentials that will make this project possible:

• Equipment  – SD cards, storage, microphones etc
• Transport – Getting our crew and gear to shooting location.
• Catering – Keeping our team fuelled during long shoot days.
• Distribution – Entering the film into festivals and promoting the project online so it reaches the widest audience possible.

Every contribution directly supports the production and helps ensure Caitlin’s story is told with the quality and reach it deserves.

Caitlin isn’t just a jazz musician - she’s a mentor, poet, and champion of self-expression. Living with impaired vision hasn’t limited her view of the world, it’s deepened it. Her work goes beyond music, guiding people to find the courage to speak, sing, and truly be heard.

In Voice, we’ll capture:

• An intimate lesson with Joel, where Caitlin turns fear into confidence.
• Reflections on her life, career, and the philosophy that fuels her.

• Live performances that reveal not just her artistry, but her heart.

   

Too many people keep their voice, their art, their ideas, and their truth locked away out of fear or the belief that no one wants to hear it. Voice is here to challenge that. Through Caitlin Smith’s story, we see the power of true artistic expression, and how embracing it can inspire others to uncover and share the voice they’ve been hiding. Caitlin has forged a career as a celebrated jazz musician, poet, and mentor. Her journey is proof that creativity and resilience can overcome obstacles, and that creative self-expression can be a force for both personal and collective change. 

By supporting this film, you help share Caitlin’s message and story with the world, giving others the courage to express themselves. Your contribution can spark someone to step forward, speak up, and create without fear. 

Once you find your voice, it has the power to change everything.