Review of Spotlight On... Performing for Broadcast
Congratulations to Sarah Barker who successfully organised her first event:
Spotlight On… Performing for Broadcast
The event was held on Wednesday 22nd October 2008 at the BBC on Oxford Road and it was a fantastic success. PANDA members in attendance heard from industry figures on the panel:
Julie Fountain and Jamie Briers from Equity
Julie and Jamie spoke about how to structure your CV, what to have in it, performers' rights and avoiding being exploited when working in broadcast. Jamie also discussed new media and the opportunities for actors in internet, gaming and voiceovers.
Charlotte Riches and Sarah Kenny from BBC Radio Drama
Charlotte and Sarah gave an insight into acting in radio drama and highlighted some forthcoming schemes for performers and writers wanting to break into broadcast. Sarah talked about casting for radio drama, explained why why they book certain actors and gave tips for what you should include on your profile on casting websites. They also gave an insider look on which agents they use and advice on how to get a foot in the door with radio drama.
Chris Corcoran, TV Director/Actor and Sunshine Studios Actors Guild
Chris gave the PANDA members his personal insight into being a TV director and an actor himself. He gave personal advice on how to avoid knock backs when auditioning for tv and explained how he got into the media industry.
Paul Newbery, Experienced Actor
Paul gave his tips and advice on free training and preparation resources available for actors; he looked at the focus of facial expression and body language and gave tips for auditioning for television and how to avoid being distracted at auditions. He provided personal and practical advice on how to market yourself and which sites can help actors get seen and scouted.
Participants at the event found the content very beneficial, with a good mix of personal insight and practical information from the experienced panel of industry figures.
After the panel event we held an informal networking session in the BBC Bar, which was also a big success. PANDA members had the chance to hand their CV’s and business cards to the BBC Radio team and discuss future opportunities and open auditions. They also got further advice individually from Jamie and Julia from Equity and spoke to Chris Corcoran about the Actor’s Guild, preparation for auditions and show reels. Paul passed on more audition echniques that could land a role in TV. Everyone also got the chance to meet each other and discuss work they are participating in and will be doing in the future!
We're very pleased with the response to this event and will be using feedback to influence our plans for future events. The next Spotlight On is coming up in November:
Spotlight On... Meet the Neighbours is taking place on Wednesday 12th November 2008 at Unity Theatre in Liverpool. It will be a chance to find out more about regional support and rural touring opportunities for performing arts practitioners in the North West. Find out more or book a place now.