Watch live: Production Unlocked from Salford

Welcome to the BBC Academy Live presents Production Unlocked livestream. Join us from 10:15am on Monday 21 September for an exciting programme of masterclasses, panel discussions and practical skills sessions focusing on production.

Watch live from 10:15 on Monday 21 September: Production Unlocked from Salford.
Watch live from 10:15am on Monday 21 September: Production Unlocked from Salford. Follow the full schedule below:

Time

Venue: BBC North, Quay House, Media City, Salford, M50 2EQ

Registration/Livestream Information

10:15-11:00

BBC Writers in Conversation with Danny Brocklehurst

Discover the realities of a career in television writing as acclaimed screenwriter Danny Brocklehurst (Ten Pound Poms, Brassic) shares stories from his professional journey and offers invaluable insights and advice for emerging writers seeking to break into the industry.

Hosted by Alice Ramsey, Commissioning Executive for BBC Writers and Drama.

Book your place 

• Livestreamed

11:15-12:00 

So We’re All Youtubers Now?

Creator led video sharing or global broadcaster? Broadcasters and YouTube collaborations go beyond casting influencers. Digital platforms are reshaping audiences and commissioning. Explore how to navigate the challenges and opportunities for Production Companies, Broadcasters and creator led indies in a rapidly evolving landscape. Hear from experts including:

  • Rick Murray - Founder and CEO of WorkerBee.

  • Fred Bhat - Executive Producer, Digital & Creator Content for BBC.

Book your place

• Livestreamed 

12:15-13:00

Talking a Good Game

Reaching new audiences - increasing accessibility, engagement and visibility of Sport. From live events to rights free entertainment, this session explores the successful scaling and expansion of sport production and live events, from integrating with Entertainment, to embracing the big streamers, creators and digital platforms.

Helen Brown, Executive Editor, BBC iPlayer & YouTube for BBC Sport, joins

  • Matt Stanger - Executive Creative Director and Co-Founder of Platform Media
  • Joe Bennett – Managing Director, BUZZ16

Book your place

• Livestreamed 

13:45 - 14:15

Q&A with BBC Director-General, Matt Brittin

Join Matt Brittin for an open discussion about the BBC's commitment to engaging and connecting with young audiences, the vital role young people play in shaping and contributing to the creative industries.

The conversation will also explore the future of public service broadcasting and how the BBC represents communities across the UK, with a nod to the BBC’s Made of campaign. This is a unique opportunity to share your views, ask questions, and learn more about careers and opportunities within the creative sector.

Hosted by Lauren Layfield, Presenter, BBC Radio 1

To attend this session, please contact academylive@bbc.co.uk to request a place with your name, occupation, organisation / place of study. Thank you!

Livestreamed

Contact academylive@bbc.co.uk to request an in-person place with your name, occupation, organisation / place of study

14:30-15:15 

Made of Greater Manchester

Celebrating the heart, humour and communities of Greater Manchester, the changing production landscape and growth, plus the arrival of the Edinburgh Television Festival from 2027. Hear from experts including:

  • Heidi Dawson - BBC Head of North of England, Controller, BBC Radio 5 Live.

  • Rob Page - Managing Director of Screen Manchester and Space Studio Manchester.

  • Cameron Roach - RTS North West Chair, Founder, Rope Ladder Fiction.

Book your place

• Livestreamed

15:30-16:15

All Drama Great and Small 

World-Building to Micro-Drama. From high-end and global scripted shows to new micro-episodes on digital platforms, British drama is growing despite the downturn. What skills and opportunities do you need to know about to navigate the changing Scripted landscape?

  • Angelo Abela - Head of Scripted Kids & Family, Lime Pictures.

  • Davina Earl - Executive Producer, Quay Street Productions.

Book your place

• Livestreamed 

16:30-17:15

Meet the Commissioners

Gain valuable insights from commissioners and content leaders from across the industry. 

  • Ruby Barnhill - Assistant Commissioner, Animation, BBC Children’s
  • Kit Morey - Commissioning Editor, Unscripted Channel 5 / Paramount

Book your place

* Livestreamed

17:15 - 18:00

Networking reception in partnership with RTS North West

Following the commissioners sessions, the in-person audience and guests will be invited to join a dedicated networking session in partnership with RTS North West. This is to provide attendees with the opportunity to build connections with industry peers, commissioners and production professionals.

 

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