An event to highlight the range of careers in the broadcast industry will be taking place at Bournemouth University.
Creative Careers: Behind the Scenes will invite young people from the local community to come behind-the-scenes at BU to see how television shows and films are made, with access to the university’s industry-leading equipment.
The event will take place on Saturday 16 March and is open to anyone between the ages of 16-25 who would like to discover the skills and roles that take place behind the scenes across film, TV and animation.
The event is happening as a part of the BBC’s national Bring The Drama Festival, which aims to highlight the range of exciting behind-the-scenes roles and careers in the TV, film and theatre industry. The festival runs from 12 February to 31 March 2024 to coincide with National Careers Week (4-9 March) and in parallel with new primetime BBC Two and BBC iPlayer series Bring the Drama, hosted by Bill Bailey.
Suzy Klein, Head of Arts TV at the BBC, says: “We have created the Bring the Drama Festival so that anyone who wants to get into the many offscreen roles in theatre, film and TV can find an event near them, to introduce them to the magical world of working in the creative industries. There is so much talent across Britain and making world-class movies, TV shows and theatre is one of our greatest global exports – working with more than 150 partner organisations, the Festival promises to lure in the next generation of brilliant creatives.”
Annie East, Principal Academic & Deputy Head of the Department of Media Production at Bournemouth University, said, “We are proud to support the BBC Bring the Drama Festival and open our doors to the next generation of behind-the-scenes talent for an in-depth look at the roles and skills that go into making the films and shows you watch every day.
“We are committed to providing opportunities for young people locally to explore careers in the film, television and animation industry and this one-day event will give more information about the sorts of roles available. The television and film industry in the UK is thriving, and we’re proud to play our part in helping creative industries to thrive through the talent we produce, and the many graduates who go on to have long and fulfilling careers.”
Attendees can take part in a range of free workshops led by a team of expert studio tutors. Workshops include a multicamera TV studio experience, working as a team to help produce a professional television programme in the university’s UHD (ultra-high-definition) television studios, using the same kit as BBC prime time television. Those with an interest in radio can head to BU’s radio studios and learn what it takes to put together a radio programme.
The university is home to the UK’s only National Centre for Computer Animation, with graduates going on to win Oscars for the quality of their work. An animation workshop will explore what it takes to create the models and textures, like those seen in video games and movies. Tutors will guide attendees through the basics of ZBrush (an animation software) tools and techniques for creating intricate and realistic sculptures.
PhD researcher Sasha Alexdottir will lead a workshop to explore the current state of virtual reality Metaverse games (such as VRChat) and how people and the community can help drive it forward. Attendees will learn about the advancements in the VR Metaverse first-hand – as well as discuss and brainstorm the future of virtual reality.
All of the workshops will be taught in specialist facilities with access to industry standard equipment and software. The workshops are all free of charge and no previous experience necessary.
Book online: https://Creative-careers-behind-the-scenes.eventbrite.co.uk and for more information about the BBC’s Bring the Drama Festival, visit the BBC website.
