Television Magazine
November 2013

The RTS calendar for the past month has been packed. We kicked off with the Patrons Dinner held at the House of Lords and ended October with our inaugural Craft Skills Day Masterclasses.

In between, the early-evening events team gave us two scintillating sessions, “The dark art of scheduling”, and Danny Cohen’s insights into how BBC Television will evolve in a more personalised era. RTS Futures was busy, too; some of our younger members were given the opportunity to speed date the popular factual and features gurus. 

I was thrilled that the Society’s patron, HRH The Prince of Wales, attended the RTS Craft Skills Day. Helping young people develop appropriate skills is a natural area for the RTS as an educational charity.

It was absolutely wonderful that HRH announced how the RTS is extending its educational remit by awarding 20 new bursaries for students studying television production and related digital media at accredited British universities.

I was privileged to see the Prince talk informally to some of the students on what was a memorable day. He is clearly deeply committed to helping young people find their way in life, regardless of their background. 

This month, I enjoyed a lively and stimulating lunch hosted by the London Centre Committee. I am hugely impressed by the number and variety of events that London holds. Michael Palin will deliver a star turn with the London Centre’s RTS Christmas Lecture on 11 December: “25 years on the road”.

Meanwhile, book now for “Broadchurch: Anatomy of a hit” on 28 November. Among the speakers will be the show’s creator, Chris Chibnall. Now that’s a hot ticket. Finally, the RTS All Party Parliamentary Group will be holding a fascinating debate on the “Spectrum wars” between broadcasting and mobile operators. Kip Meek and James Purnell will be speaking on 26 November at the event chaired by Lord Fowler. 

Theresa Wise

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