Scotland's First Minister Visits BBC Studioworks' New TV Studio

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: "Three years ago, we started a conversation with the Glasgow City Council and Screen Scotland where we shared a vision of creating a world class TV facility, based in central Glasgow, operated by Glaswegians and used as a hub to grow the future talent of the global entertainment sector.

"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."