As a collective, we’ve worked on plays and films together. We’ve weathered the stormy life as creators—the struggles and frustrations, the financial hardship, and how tricky it becomes the older you get. But there’s power in our shared experiences and our willingness to be SEEN and HEARD.
Our Team
Clare Pickering
Founder
“My mission in life is to give a voice to those who don’t have one.“
Clare is the founder of Late Bloomers Productions and has been working as an actor, writer, producer and director for over 20 years.
At Tropfest 2026, Clare realised it was time to take action. Late Bloomers Fest was born out of a need to create an opportunity for film creatives over the age of 50 to be given the same opportunities as young filmmakers.
Gary Boulter
Executive Producer
Gary Boulter is a Sydney-based actor, filmmaker, acting coach and corporate entertainer with more than 20 years of professional experience across film, television and live performance. Gary has built a reputation for grounded performances, sharp comedic timing and a strong instinct for audience connection.
Alongside his screen work, he has produced and performed in more than 1,000 live interactive events through Murder Mystery Fun, creating immersive entertainment experiences for corporate and private audiences across Australia.
As a filmmaker and creative producer, Gary is passionate about championing stories beyond the industry’s obsession with youth and trend cycles. His mobile-shot films have screened internationally, including festival selections connected to Cannes Film Festival and award wins abroad.
Through the creation of Late Bloomers Fest, Gary is helping build a platform for filmmakers over 50. Storytellers with lived experience, resilience and perspective, proving that creativity doesn’t fade with age, it deepens.
Ali Aitken
Executive Producer
Ali Aitken is a storyteller and creative/executive producer working across performance, live events and digital media in Australia and internationally. As a performer she’s worked extensively in theatre and film (including a Flickerfest winner), and spent a number of years on television in Hong Kong enlightening local children to the wonders of the English language. She has produced and stage managed large-scale tours and events for companies including Sydney Festival, Gordon Frost Organisation and Pacific Opera and produced award-winning podcasts for Paramount, among others.
Ali is a proud MEAA member across Equity, Media and Crew, and has served as an elected member of the Australian National Performers’ Committee since 2019.
At the core of her work is a belief in the power of story, particularly those shaped by lived experience. As Executive Producer of LateBloomersFest, she is passionate about creating space for stories that often sit outside the spotlight, and building something that recognises depth, experience and creative longevity.
Contact Us
Follow us for updates and announcements
