​In 2014, Dick and Angel embarked on an adventure of a lifetime with their two children, Arthur and Dorothy, and Angel’s parents, Jenni and Steve. The dream was to find their “forever home” that could double as a business and sustain their multi-generational family. After years of searching, they found Chateau de la Motte Husson, a run-down fairy-tale castle located in the stunning Pays da la Loire, France. It had no water, electricity, or heating and came with a 300-page survey of why not to buy it! It was the start of an incredible journey that no one could predict.

Millions of viewers across the world have been enthralled over the past few years by the family’s adventures. However, retired Lieutenant Colonel, engineer, and chef Dick and his entrepreneur and designer wife Angel still have many untold tales to tell.

Dick and Angel state, “We are so excited about our family adventure to the US and Canada. It’s such an honor for us to finally meet fans of Escape To The Chateau across the pond, and we can’t wait to give our audience a deeper insight into our lives and who we are. We’re looking forward to having lots of fun on our exciting whistle-stop tour!”

Hot on the heels of sold-out tours in the UK and Australia/New Zealand, audiences can expect fascinating insights into what inspired the husband-and-wife team, who fell in love in 2010, to bring their fairy-tale castle back to life and turn it into the flourishing and continually evolving business it is today.

They may be an ‘odd couple,’ but the charismatic pair have a love story to share.

During this highly entertaining evening, the duo explains who they are, where they have come from, how they met, and why they dared to do it! With stories to tell, games to play, and laughs to share, join Dick and Angel for a truly unmissable night at the theatre.

Interested media who wish to obtain show tickets and arrange interviews with Dick and Angel Strawbridge are invited to contact Workhouse, CEO, Adam Nelson via [email protected].

In the realm where narratives intertwine with history’s fabric, “The Wonder and the Worry” emerges as a compelling documentary feature, chronicling the legacy of two generations of photographers who sculpted the narrative of National Geographic Magazine. Directed by David Baker and lensed by Saskia Madlener, this cinematic journey unfolds against the backdrop of the evolution of modern journalism.

Watch “The Wonder and the Worry” Official film trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPKxr5HNvGQ&themeRefresh=1. 

​At its core lies the compelling story of Chris and Louise Johns, a father-daughter duo whose photographic prowess encapsulated the essence of our world amidst journalism’s shifting tides. From Chris’ humble beginnings amidst Oregon’s rural landscapes to his ascendancy to the editorial helm of National Geographic, and Louise’s navigation of the contemporary photojournalism landscape, the film immerses viewers in the complexities of storytelling amid digital disruption and commercial imperatives.

In candid interviews, Chris Johns reflected on his storied career, 
Q: What was it like having your daughter, Louise, following in your footsteps as a photographer?
A: “When Louise was growing up, I never imagined her being a photographer. As she attended the University of Montana and her interest in photography grew, I was delighted. From that moment on, I had no desire to pressure or push her. I wanted Louise to find her voice, follow her passions and live a meaningful and satisfying life. To work and collaborate with Louise is one of the greatest pleasures of my life.”
Q: What emotions did you experience when watching the finished documentary for the first time?
A: “When watching The Wonder and the Worry, I was deeply touched. It reinforced how fortunate I am to have worked for National Geographic, but, more importantly, how blessed I am to have such a wonderful family. It also brought back fond memories of the people in my life who have lifted and supported me.”Johns shared profound insights garnered from the sweeping vistas of Africa’s Great Rift Valley to the hallowed halls of National Geographic headquarters. “An accomplished journalist has always had to be curious, open, brave, and nimble,” he muses. “What has changed are the tools for telling a story and how stories are shared… The most challenging part is finding a financial model that supports journalists doing relevant, important work.” ​

In our exclusive Q&A, Baker continued to underscore the film’s commitment to honoring storytelling’s legacy while navigating the complexities of the digital age. Yet, amidst the triumphs of exploration lie shadows of uncertainty—a stark reminder of the challenges confronting modern media. As Chris and Louise navigate this terrain, they confront the realities of an industry grappling with commercial pressures, where the pursuit of truth contends with the demands of the marketplace.
Q: How did you decide to make a film about Chris and Louise Johns?
A: “Chris is an alum of Oregon State University, where I work. I was teaching a documentary film workshop during the Pandemic, and I invited Chris to give a guest lecture via Zoom. He dialed in from Montana and shared some of his photos and the stories behind them. I knew of his work, but seeing those photos shocked me: I’d grown up with them in the 80s and 90s. I also recalled the magazines he edited, the strong journalism and amazing covers. Those stories shaped me. I knew right away that here was a story waiting to happen. At first, I thought it might be a short documentary, but then I met Louise and it was clear that there was much more to the story than a mere profile.”
Q: The film is produced by Oregon State University…isn’t that unusual for a feature film?
A: “I’d say it’s less common than it has been, but not unusual. Big research universities like Oregon State have a long history of storytelling. I had a predecessor named Jim Larison. He was an ecologist and filmmaker on staff who made dozens of amazing films in the 80s and 90s, and many of them were collaborations with the National Geographic Society. They were science based and some had a big impact on conservation and shaping public policy, like the establishment of the Roadless Rule, which was helped along by his film Ancient Forests. Our team at Oregon State follows in Jim’s footsteps, making documentaries about important issues faced by the world. This kind of deep storytelling is part of our mission as an institution. And it also has the benefit of reflecting positively on our brand. I believe public universities have a responsibility to tell fact-based stories to a wide audience to drive solutions. More and more universities are acting like corporations, with top-heavy administrations and corporate style communications. But we’re also losing trust. We blindly imitate corporations at our peril. I think Oregon State is hanging onto it roots as a public good and a benefit to society, and I think that through our work in deep storytelling, we’re helping that. Tools for cinematic storytelling have been democratized greatly, and that allows us to work with very small budgets. Still such work for the public good is constantly under threat and needs to be protected.”

The GSFF offers several categories for films and filmmakers of all kinds. The Hometown Documentary Series was created by the GSFF, Artists Alike Studios, the New Jersey Motion Picture & Television Commission, and the New Jersey School Boards Association with the winner receiving a $500 prize from the NJSBA to the school the student attends.  The High School film blocks screen on Saturday, March 23, and Sunday, March 24th at the Berkeley.
There are $250.00 prizes sponsored by UARTS [University of the Arts] for the following two categories: the best Home Grown High School and Younger Film & Home Grown Animation High School Animation. “GSFF is proud to assist in providing advocacy and support to advance public education. We believe in the transformative power of arts education to substantially improve children’s lives and academic outcomes, and prepare them for 21st-century careers,” said Lauren Concar Sheehy, Executive Director. “GSFF has high school and younger categories,” continued Concar, “which many families and grandparents attend to celebrate their child’s achievement and to explore the career and technology resources we offer. It's a great way to get a better understanding of your filmmaker's passion and the opportunities that are available to them.” There is also The Roger Conant & Garden State Film Festival Scholarship at Brookdale Community College. Contact [email protected] for more information.

The Awards Dinner on March 24 is an event honoring this year’s distinguished guests, with Clinton Mayor Janice Kovach serving as the Honorary Chair. Other honorees include Carla Raij, recognized for her exceptional work in film, David Diianni as Educator of the Year, Rising Star recipient Sophia Lucia Parola, and photographer Tom Zapcic, the 2024 MVP.

The festivities commence with a "Meet the Filmmakers" cocktail party and include a Gala Cocktail Reception, the red-carpet premiere of "The Martini Shot," and a screenplay reading of "The Dude Is Legit!"
​

New Client: Workhouse is honored to announce the return of the acclaimed fashion designer Joy Teiken of Joynoelle back to our roster. Her unparalleled artistry and innovative approach in the world of haute couture marks a celebrated reunion with our team. We could not be more proud to support her continued journey in the world of high fashion.

"Stepping back into the wider fashion landscape, after years focused on my family and bespoke work, is an exhilarating moment. Collaborating again with Workhouse after our 2009 campaigns feels like aligning a needle with its perfect thread – there's a natural, seamless connection that truly understands and amplifies the essence of Joynoelle. It's a fusion of creative minds and visions, poised to craft a new, dynamic chapter.”

Joy Teiken, founder and principal designer of Joynoelle, stands as a paragon of innovative fashion design, celebrated for her distinctive approach that intertwines the allure of nature with the elegance of modern aesthetics. Her collections, known for their sculptural silhouettes and textural richness, draw inspiration from the vibrant tapestry of the natural world, encapsulating an ethos of artistic expression and a deep reverence for life’s simple joys.

A virtuoso in the realm of fashion, Teiken's self-taught journey in design is marked by an exceptional mastery in draping and fabric manipulation. Each piece in her collection is a testament to her meticulous craftsmanship, handcrafted with precision and care in her Minneapolis-based atelier. This creative sanctuary, a reflection of Teiken's artistic soul, is adorned with an array of sumptuous fabrics, elegant dress forms, and the subtle undertones of tranquil music, setting the stage for her creative process.

Interested media who wish to view the collection or arrange interviews with designer Joy Teiken are invited to contact Workhouse, CEO Adam Nelson via [email protected]
​
For more information, visit: joynoelle.com
Media Workhouse

New Client: Workhouse is proud to welcome the American sports drama Hard Miles Movie feature film based on a true story starring Matthew Modine into the agency’s fold.
​
“Hard Miles” narrates the remarkable true story of Greg Townsend and the Rite of Passage cycling team. Against the backdrop of RidgeView Academy, a medium-security correctional school in Colorado, the film follows coach Greg Townsend (Matthew Modine) as he embarks on an audacious journey with a group of juvenile convicts. Together, they undertake a transformative 1000-mile bike ride from Denver to the Grand Canyon. As novice bicyclists battle various challenges, the story unfolds as a powerful metaphor for personal growth and self-discovery. While caring social worker Haddie (Cynthia Kaye McWilliams) serves as a voice of reason, Coach Townsend pushes the boys to their limits. The film delves into themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the resilience of the human spirit in the unforgiving desert landscape. Awards and accolades have already recognized the film’s excellence, including the prestigious Jimmy Stewart Legacy Award at the Heartland Film Festival and Audience Awards at the Denver Film Festival and Naples International Film Festival, among others. “Hard Miles” has been an official selection at several renowned film festivals. The film opens nationwide in theaters this May 2024 in a story that truly underscores the wisdom that comes with age, experience, health and wellness, and community service. This cinematic masterpiece beautifully captures the essence of hope, determination, and mentorship, offering an emotional journey that will resonate.

Interested media who wish to discuss featuring “Hard Miles” and provide exclusive insights through interviews with Matthew Modine are invited to contact Workhouse, CEO Adam Nelson via [email protected]

Coming to theaters May 2024
Theatrical Release by Blue Fox Entertainment
Written by Christian Sander (Producer) & R.J. Daniel Hanna
Directed by R.J. Daniel Hanna
Starring Matthew Modine

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