The state of the screen industry in the East of England took centre stage at a relaxed, but thought-provoking panel discussion and networking session hosted by RTS East and Pact, the independent producers’ trade body, in Norwich last month.
A panel from Norfolk Screen, RTS East and Tin Can Post, a Norwich-based post-production house, discussed how best to attract investment into the region, how to support local film and television students and how to encourage homegrown talent to stay on the patch.
Led by Jules Robinson, Pact's nations and regions business development consultant, the panellists talked enthusiastically about the region’s strengths, particularly its diverse and beautiful filming locations. But in addition to the stunning coastlines, seaside towns and wide skies of the Fens, the panel highlighted the broad range of education providers and screen-related businesses based in the East. These included leaders in new technology, innovative gaming companies and post-production houses.
Barriers, however, included a lack of significant studio facilities in East Anglia and a need for more investment, but discussion with the audience led to positive conversations about how to develop a screen cluster in Norfolk.
More than 40 people attended the event, held at Norwich’s Cinema City.
RTS East and Pact plan to hold another networking session in Cambridge this year, in response to local demand for more in-person events that allow students and professionals to make connections and to grow the industry in the region.
Report by Rachel Watson
