“BBC Studioworks is a welcome addition to Scotland’s existing range of studio space and is already delivering expertise in the entertainment genre and supporting existing skills and training schemes to further develop a sustainable creative economy” – Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister
Scotland’s First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon visited BBC Studioworks’ recently launched multi-camera television studio at Glasgow’s Kelvin Hall to see first-hand the world class multi camera facility and meet with young trainee graduates who have kick-started their career in studio entertainment production by completing the National Film and Television School (NFTS) Scotland’s new Multi-Camera TV Conversion Programme.
The new 10,500 sq. ft purpose-built studio, set in the heart of Glasgow’s West End in the iconic Kelvin Hall launched in September. Co-funded by the Scottish Government, through Screen Scotland and Glasgow City Council, the facility is a major boost to Scotland’s capacity to produce multi-genre TV productions.
With the growing demand to make more TV shows and films in Scotland, the requirement for local, skilled production crews has increased significantly.
The Multi-Camera TV Conversion Programme, supported by BBC Studioworks, Screen Scotland and Glasgow City Council aims to fuel the growth of Scotland’s creative workforce and support the development of a skilled, dynamic and diverse pipeline. It has been designed to strengthen existing skills, provide on-the-job training and encourage new entry points into the industry
BBC Studioworks provides paid work opportunities for each of the programme participants, giving them the opportunity to translate their learnings into practical skills and work alongside experienced TV production professionals in a state-of-the-art setting.
Since its opening BBC Studioworks has facilitated 40 episodes of television at Kelvin Hall for two production residencies; BBC One’s quiz show Bridge of Lies, produced by STV Studios (33 episodes) and BBC Two’s Frankie Boyle’s New World Order, produced by Zeppotron (seven episodes recoded with a 300 strong studio audience).
Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister said:
“BBC Studioworks is a welcome addition to Scotland’s existing range of studio space and is already delivering expertise in the entertainment genre and supporting existing skills and training schemes to further develop a sustainable creative economy.
“The studio will help meet the growing demand for Scottish film and high-end television production, and its opening provides a further boost to a building that has played a key role in Glasgow’s cultural and sporting life.”
Andrew Moultrie, CEO BBC Studioworks said:
Today, with their support, we deliver that vision through a sustainable state-of-the-art TV studio at Kelvin Hall with best-in-class operational capabilities and real work opportunities for local Glaswegians.”
David Smith, Director at Screen Scotland said:
BBC Studioworks first started discussing the potential for a new state-of-the-art entertainment studio with Screen Scotland in early 2020. The Scottish Government and Glasgow City Council immediately recognised the potential when we raised the opportunity with them, and we have all worked together to deliver this opportunity for Scottish TV producers and crew.
Importantly, Kelvin Hall remains a destination for the people of Glasgow, as it is a facility where audiences can watch TV being made live – can see the wide range of rewarding creative jobs available behind the camera.”
Councillor Susan Aitken, Leader of Glasgow City Council, said:
“The state-of-the-art Kelvin Hall studio is key to the continuing development of the thriving film and broadcast sector here in Glasgow, with all the jobs, skills and economic opportunities that it brings.
The success of productions already made at Kelvin Hall point to a very healthy future for both the studio and the sector, and, with the ongoing support of partners, this hugely important industry can go from strength to strength.”
