The RTS Futures Festival was back for a fourth year in November and bigger and better than before, in a new venue at M Shed on Bristol’s harbourside.
This year, RTS West of England partnered with Bristol UNESCO City of Film and welcomed 17 companies from the creative community to meet those hoping to break into the industry. Edinburgh TV Festival talent scheme The Network and BFI Network South West highlighted opportunities alongside indies such as Aardman, Icon Films, True to Nature, RDF West, as well as a range of post-production facilities.
A series of sold-out short talks featured industry professionals sharing insights and passing on advice. Conservationist and presenter Niall Strawson, production coordinator Candice Hayden and researcher Emily Aitken discussed how to get into TV and to stand out in such a competitive industry.
Other talks looked at idea generation and development, post-production and production management.
Rachel Drummond-Hay, co-founder of Drummer TV and RTS West of England Vice Chair said: “This year's event was as full and buzzy as ever, but we were particularly pleased with the range of students who attended – from colleges to universities, there was representation across the region, reinforcing the message that the TV industry is inclusive and accessible to all.
“A huge thank you to all the companies for giving up their time and to the panellists who shared their experiences.”
