THE TEAM
Debbie started her career in the wardrobe department of the groundbreaking Market Theatre in Johannesburg in the late 1970’s. In the 1980’s she moved into production on TV shows and feature films.
After a spell of working as a producer for international news agencies during the political turmoil leading up to South Africa’s first free election, Debbie was involved in the boom of service work as South Africa’s market was opened up to international commercial productions post 1994. During this time, Debbie freelanced with some of South Africa’s best service & production companies, and was privileged to work with many top directors, production companies and agencies from all around the globe.
In 2002, Debbie opened Rocket, where she continued to focus on her regular clients in her own inimitable style. Her goal has always been to maintain an ethical, focused and professional production company where intelligent and solutions driven service provides an environment and product to satisfy every client. The success of Rocket Films over the past 23 years is testament to Debbie’s commitment and dedication to this ethos. Many of her client’s have been with her since the start and she has grown Rocket client base through word of mouth and her sparkling reputation.
Over her long career, Debbie has worked in most media – from News to Feature films, Television to Stills, documentaries, reality shows and hundreds of TVC shoots. Aware that media is a fast changing and dynamic world, and that diversity is essential, she is excited to be launching Rocket into new territories and Rocket is currently exploring collaborations in long form and post production projects which will be announced soon.
She was recently elected the Chair of Makhasa Winner’s League F.C. A community upliftment program that Rocket has been supporting since its’ inception in 2009. This project defies the harsh life that it was borne out of and has seen more that 600 boys become men with skills and discipline since its start.
Debbie’s ethos; work hard and clever, have fun and be kind to people and the planet.
Ty Keogh
With over 25 years of on-set experience, working between South Africa, the US and UK, Ty Keogh has honed his craft as a producer for Rocket Films.
His astute understanding of client facilitation, coupled with key operational experience allows him to manage campaigns from boardroom to location.
He brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and creativity
He brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and creativity to the Rocket team, with a focus on developing original content and expanding Rocket’s full production offering into new territories.
Clodagh Quinlan
Clodagh Quinlan brings over 15 years of diverse experience in production, having worked across the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. With a track record of completing more than 100 TV commercials, documentaries, and creative projects, she has developed a strong reputation in the industry.
Her integrity and proven dedication to every client is at 100% from start to finish
Clodagh began her career in Talent Management, where she gained six years of valuable experience. In 2007, she transitioned to production, quickly establishing herself as a reliable team member. Since then, she has managed entire productions, tackled complex budgets, and collaborated with award-winning directors.
Clodagh’s passion for filmmaking is evident in her focus on creating organized and efficient work environments, which have contributed to the success of projects for well-known brands like Nespresso, Toyota, McDonald’s, Samsung, Ecobank, CBQ Bank Qatar, BMW, and Peugeot. She is also involved in various aspects of the production process, including post-production and talent management.
Using her strong interpersonal skills, Clodagh builds solid relationships with industry professionals, ensuring smooth communication and collaboration. Her commitment to delivering high-quality results drives her work ethic, making her a trusted producer dedicated to the success of each project.
Cheryl Robinson
Since 2018 Cheryl Robinson has been an integral part of Rocket Films, Cape Town, driving innovation and efficiency in the company’s financial and operational processes. With her expertise and forward-thinking approach, Cheryl has streamlined production workflows, modernized systems, and upskilled the team to meet the demands of a fast-paced and evolving industry.
Cheryl’s dedication extends beyond numbers; she fosters excellent relationships with Rocket Films’ crew and suppliers, ensuring they are well looked after.
Her ability to keep Rocket Films on the pulse of both local and global financial compliance ensures the company operates with integrity and professionalism. Cheryl consistently finds creative and cutting-edge ways to keep budgets lean and overheads down, all while maintaining strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and crew. Her meticulous management of quotes, invoices, reconciliations, and budgets is executed in a timely and professional manner, earning the trust and respect of all stakeholders.
Cheryl’s dedication extends beyond numbers; she fosters excellent relationships with Rocket Films’ crew and suppliers, ensuring they are well looked after. Her commitment to collaboration and efficiency has made her a cornerstone of the Rocket Films team, contributing significantly to the company’s reputation for delivering high-quality productions with precision and care.