TWO WEEKS TO GO! LAST CHANCE TO ENTER THIS YEAR’S FILMG COMPETITION
After a very exciting and busy six months, the closing date for entries in FilmG 2017 is fast approaching. However, if anyone is yet to complete their film there are still two weeks left, before the competition closes on Wednesday 14th December.
Whether it be a comedy, drama, documentary or even a music video, one of the simplest ways to make a short film, is to use mobile technology. Making a film is easier than you might think… As long as you have a mobile phone or tablet and a germ of an idea, you can download one of the many editing apps, such as iMovie or FilmoraGo and you too can be in with the chance of winning a fantastic £500 voucher, for Best Mobile Short in the open category.
This year saw the addition of two new categories; Best Sports Commentary and in the Youth section, a prize for Best Animation. As with the mobile shorts, everyday technology can be used to create simple and effective stop motion films using props you have to hand.
So, if you prefer the latest Pixar release to the newest Blockbuster, then why not try your hand at an animation – even if your school has already entered a film, there is still time to showcase your own creativity too! Animated entries must contain a Gaelic element.
The FilmG team are hopeful that the increasing availability of technology along with a broader range of prizes than ever before will see a record number of entries this year.
Remember, the theme for this year’s FilmG competition is ‘Strì’ meaning to strive or endeavour. This year’s topic has already inspired films of all genres – why not add yours to the list? Again, entries must be submitted by Wednesday 14th December. All films must be in Scottish Gaelic and can be up to five minutes long for youth category entrants or up to eight minutes in length for open category entrants. So go on, what are you waiting for?!
For some last minute inspiration, remember to check out films from previous years, these are available to watch online at www.filmg.co.uk. If you would still like to make a film and/or want to know more about the competition, please contact eilidh.rankin@canan.co.uk or moira@canan.co.uk
CELTIC FORMAT PILOT SCHEME 2016/17
For the second year, BBC ALBA, S4C and TG4 are pleased to be working together on a Celtic Formats Scheme. Ideas are invited for an original, unscripted factual entertainment format that taps into the zeitgeist and will appeal across the Celtic nations and beyond.
Funding from MG ALBA, S4C and TG4 totalling £15,000 is on offer with the aim of developing a pilot that can be produced in the Celtic nations independently and further afield.
Iseabail Mactaggart, Director of Strategy and Partnership for MG ALBA said: “We are ambitious for Gaelic broadcasting and for our suppliers and this scheme allows us the space to create a new format and to collaborate with other broadcasters and markets”.
Further information on the scheme can be found here.
THE BIG GAELIC SURVEY ASKS HOW MEDIA CAN HELP THE GAELIC LANGUAGE TO PROSPER
A new survey has been launched as part of research examining the impact of Gaelic media on learning of the language.
The Big Gaelic Survey, which has been commissioned by Bòrd na Gàidhlig and MG ALBA, is being conducted independently from the two organisations by Meriel Young Consulting, a research consultancy based in Edinburgh.
Three questionnaires have been launched aimed at those with varying levels of Gaelic proficiency: Gaelic speakers, Gaelic learners and those who are interested in learning Gaelic in the future.
Respondents can access the survey by visiting the dedicated website at www.thebiggaelicsurvey.co.uk. Responses should take no more than five minutes to complete.
Among the topics raised in the questionnaire are the impact of platforms such as BBC ALBA and BBC Radio nan Gàidheal, the availability and quality of Gaelic learning materials and the gaps that may exist in resources to encourage more people to not only learn Gaelic but improve their aptitude in the language.
Meriel Young, from Meriel Young Consulting, said: “The research which has been commissioned by Bòrd na Gàidhlig and MG ALBA will help to inform the future of Gaelic media in forthcoming years. We want to reach a wide range of respondents, from fluent Gaelic speakers to those who would like to learn the language but have yet to do so. By reaching as many people as possible, male and female, young and old, we can enhance the value of our findings.”
Bòrd na Gàidhlig Ceannard (CEO), Shona MacLennan said: “Bòrd na Gàidhlig wants to understand better how people learn and enhance their Gaelic skills. It is paramount for planning and developing the language that we understand how the media helps Gaelic speakers, learners, and those interested in learning access the language. This is the first time research such as this has been undertaken and it will enable us to measure just how important the media is in growing Gaelic.”
Iseabail Mactaggart, Director of Strategy and Partnership at MG ALBA, said: “Our Lèirsinn 2021 strategy was launched last December with a five-year objective of transforming the contribution of Gaelic media to the revitalisation of the language. This new independently conducted research will enable us to understand the role media play in Gaelic language learning, from cradle to grave, and we are looking to hear opinions on what users feel they need to further develop their language skills. Digital media is evolving quickly and we must ensure that we support Gaelic language learning, capitalising on new opportunities as they become available.”
MG ALBA CALL FOR GAELIC WRITERS’ VIEWS AS CHILDREN’S DRAMA FILM IS SHOWCASED AT THE MÒD
Current and aspiring Gaelic writers are being asked for their views on developing their TV writing talent by MG ALBA, the Gaelic Media Service.
A survey, which is available through the MG ALBA’s website and is being supported by HIE Emergents, is asking for opinions from writers on the sort of work they currently undertake, and what resources would encourage them to write more or embark on different forms of their work. The questionnaire has already had nearly 50 responses and MG ALBA are appealing for other writers to make their views known.
The call for further responses was made as a new European Broadcasting Union Children’s Drama Scheme short film, commissioned by MG ALBA, has been showcased at the Mòd in Stornoway.
Na Saboteurs was filmed on location in Ness, Isle of Lewis, and has an original Gaelic script written by acclaimed writer Catriona Lexy Campbell, who is also making her directorial debut. It is produced by BBC ALBA presenter, Fiona MacKenzie and Kirsty Hines-Mackay.
The new production also features two exceptional young talents in the lead roles: Zoe Mustian and Daniel Macleod. Completing the cast are Artair Donald and Donna Morrison, two of Gaelic’s most well-established performers. Original music was also commissioned for the drama by Ross B. Wilson of Tidelines – his first TV commission. The short film will be shown on BBC ALBA as part of the channel’s Christmas schedule.
Na Saboteurs, and the survey, forms part of MG ALBA’s pursuit to develop Gaelic writing talent.
Writers of all ages and experiences are encouraged to complete the short questionnaire which will then inform MG ALBA’s strategy in this area over future months and years.
Iseabail Mactaggart, Director of Strategy and Partnership at MG ALBA, said: “Developing talent across our creative sector is an intrinsic part of MG ALBA’s work and we are committed to ensuring that writing talent is nurtured as part of this strategy.
“For that reason, we want to learn about the experiences of those who already write in Gaelic – whether for personal enjoyment or professionally. Similarly, we want to hear from those who may want to start writing or write more but feel they are unprepared to do so, maybe through a lack of training or confidence.
“Knowledge of the Gaelic language, and writing skills in particular, can also affect a person’s ability to put pen to paper. We want to know if and where barriers exist and what MG ALBA can do to help overcome these, so we create the foundation for the very best of Gaelic writing to be seen on screen.”
Catriona Lexy Campbell, writer of Na Saboteurs, said: “Na Saboteurs provides an opportunity for young Gaelic talent to get involved in production and we are thrilled with Zoe and Daniel’s performances and how well the film has turned out.
“I was pleased to have the chance to write the script for Na Saboteurs and we need to equip more people with the skill and confidence to develop their Gaelic writing. I have already completed MG ALBA’s survey and would encourage everyone to do so no matter what their level of writing experience is. Only by knowing what needs to be achieved can resources and expertise be directed in the most effective way possible.”
The survey can be accessed via https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/MGALBA_sgriobhadh
MG ALBA ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC TEAM REINFORCING ITS COMMITMENT TO GAELIC BROADCASTING
MG ALBA, the Gaelic Media Service has strengthened its team with the announcement today (Wednesday, 5 October) that it has made a key strategic move as well as creating a post for a new commissioning editor.
Director of Development and Partnerships, Iseabail Mactaggart, will take responsibility for the strategic development of BBC ALBA programming and MG ALBA’s Gaelic digital media engagement. This will see Iseabail assume management of MG ALBA’s channel team and oversight of content budgets. Working in close partnership with BBC ALBA’s Head of Service, Iseabail’s principal role will be to increase, amongst other things, the scale and the value of content collaborations with the BBC and with other broadcasters, producers, funders and agencies.
MG ALBA is also pleased to announce the creation of a new post for a commissioning editor, which will go to recruitment shortly.
The new arrangements take place with immediate effect and follow the departure of Alan Esslemont, former head of content for BBC ALBA for the past eight years, who leaves on 7 October to take up the post of Director-General of TG4 later in the month.
Iseabail Mactaggart said: “It is a privilege to take on this role. BBC ALBA is a demonstrable success, and that has been due to the leadership behind the channel. I look forward to working with colleagues within MG ALBA and the BBC, with suppliers and all our stakeholders to build on that remarkable foundation and realise our ambitions for BBC ALBA.”
Donald Campbell, chief executive, added: “Our new arrangements offer us an opportunity to build on the success of BBC ALBA and on the significant progress Iseabail has achieved in the two years since she joined us, working with great success with our creative sector and agencies to help build the capability to realise our shared ambitions for Gaelic media and for the creative sector in Scotland.
“In December 2015, Iseabail led on the publication of our Vision strategy for the next five years – Lèirsinn 2021. The extension of Iseabail’s role and the creation of a new commissioning post reinforces our commitment to realising that vision.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Alan Esslemont for his leadership, his strategic vision and his immense contribution to making BBC ALBA the success it is. We wish him every success in his new post and look forward to collaborating closely with him and with TG4.”
Alan Esslemont said: “The past eight and a half years working with MG ALBA as BBC ALBA Head of Content have been the most enjoyable of my working life. I was privileged to work with such highly committed and professional colleagues and to have been a part of the success story that is BBC ALBA from its inception. I look forward to maintaining a close relationship with BBC ALBA in my new post.”
A flagship Gaelic drama filmed on the Isle of Skye is to be exported to international audiences through a new distribution deal.
Bannan is screened on BBC ALBA and the new set of episodes start tonight on the channel.
The series is also now poised for broadcast internationally, having been signed up by DRG, one of the leading independent distributors of programmes in the world.
The news about Bannan’s international distribution comes as BBC ALBA channel partner, MG ALBA, set out the economic impact of Gaelic broadcasting at the Scottish Parliament.
Donald Campbell, Chief Executive of MG ALBA said: “The story of Bannan is part of the growth of BBC ALBA and the new distribution agreement is another landmark step in the development of the channel.
“It was important that BBC ALBA could embrace the drama genre in order to serve our Gaelic audience yet, the drama – and the channel – also needed to ensure that we could make an important contribution to the creative sector in Scotland.”
Figures to be published shortly by consultants Olsberg SPI demonstrate the economic impact of MG ALBA’s investments, particularly in the Western Isles and Skye. The international consultants found that the “114.4 FTE jobs created directly or supported by MG ALBA are equivalent to just under 11,000 in the Central Belt”. There were similar effects in additional economic value, as measured by GVA, and in equivalent value in wages generated.
Donald Campbell continued: “These figures demonstrate the enormous economic impact of investment in Gaelic broadcasting, and the stimulus such investment can generate for growth in Scotland’s creative industries.”
Young Films’ new agreement will also cover further programmes and material produced by Young Films, the independent production company formed and headed by producer of The Inbetweeners, Chris Young.
Chris Young, producer of Bannan, said: “When we first embarked on producing Bannan, we were clear that the drama should be appealing not only to a Gaelic and Scottish audience but to have strong storylines that would resonate across borders.
“We knew that the production talent existed within Scotland to make such a drama, and the wonderful location of Skye is unrivalled – all that was needed was the platform and resources to make it a reality.”
BBC ALBA is operated as a partnership agreement between the BBC and MG ALBA.
MG ALBA is pressing the BBC to make an increased commitment to the channel in order to increase the amount of original programming and reduce the number of repeats.
Donald Campbell added: “We are ambitious for Gaelic and for BBC ALBA – our ambition for the channel includes increased BBC commitment as part of a consistent, supportive policy by the BBC towards its minority language services. Following the provisions in the Charter and Framework Agreement published last week, we will be working with the BBC in the months ahead and making every attempt to secure increased BBC commitment for the channel.”
CHARTER REFERENCE TO GAELIC BROADCASTING WELCOMED BUT MORE BBC ALBA INVESTMENT STILL NEEDED
MG ALBA today welcomes the express reference to Gaelic broadcasting set out in the new draft BBC Royal Charter while urging the BBC to build on the success of BBC ALBA with increased investment in the channel.
MG ALBA has urged the BBC to make a formal commitment to increasing the amount of original programming made for BBC ALBA from 4.5 hours per week to 10 hours – to achieve parity with the Welsh TV channel, S4C. At present MG ALBA commissions work from over 20 independent production companies based in Scotland.
The need for a stronger BBC commitment to Gaelic broadcasting has achieved widespread political and industry support, with motions in both the Westminster and Scottish Parliaments, questions of ministers, Select Committee endorsement , an online video campaign led by the author Peter May, an online petition and many, many letters to the BBC in support of MG ALBA’s request , including from Scotland’s Deputy First Minster.
BBC ALBA, which is operated by a partnership between the BBC and MG ALBA, the Gaelic Media Service, has attracted audiences of around 700,000 and enjoys widespread support. The performance of the channel exceeded all expectations of the BBC Trust which set the remit for the channel.
MG ALBA wants to reduce significantly the number of repeats on BBC ALBA.
Donald Campbell, MG ALBA Chief Executive said: ”This Charter and Framework Agreement set out an explicit commitment to Gaelic broadcasting and say the BBC should continue to support the provision of output in Gaelic in Scotland, and should provide a television service through its partnership with MG ALBA. We welcome this reference to Gaelic broadcasting and the Secretary of State’s statement that the UK Government wishes to ensure that BBC ALBA has the resources it needs.
“The next step for us is to secure increased BBC investment. We are clear that the BBC needs to significantly increase its commitment to the channel for BBC ALBA to thrive and strengthen its offering of original and creative programming to its audiences. We look forward to working with the BBC to achieve that and believe added investment will benefit the creative industries in Scotland as well as serving the needs of our audience.”
BBC ALBA HEAD OF CONTENT SET FOR NEW ROLE AT TG4
MG ALBA today paid tribute to Alan Esslemont, BBC ALBA’s head of content, who has been appointed Director-General of TG4, the Irish language TV channel.
Donald Campbell, chief executive of MG ALBA, said: “Alan has made an outstanding contribution to MG ALBA and BBC ALBA over the last eight years and we wish him well as he takes on an exciting new challenge with TG4.
“From BBC ALBA’s first night on air, Alan and his team have implemented a strategy that has been carefully devised in order that our channel would appeal to our core audience of Gaelic speakers and also attract a wider audience that would experience and enjoy the language and Gaelic culture.
“We are delighted that such a strategy has made BBC ALBA the success it is today and we thank Alan who played an important part in making it happen.
“We look forward to building on that strong foundation, and ensuring that with our partner the BBC, the channel continues to go from strength to strength.”
Ken MacQuarrie, the BBC’s Director, Scotland said: “Alan was central to the launch and subsequent successful development of BBC ALBA and he has been a passionate supporter of Gaelic broadcasting. His drive and enthusiasm have brought BBC ALBA viewers a wide variety of high quality programmes across Factual, Music, Drama and Sport over the past eight years. He’s been instrumental in forging an excellent working relationship between BBC Scotland and MG ALBA and we’ll miss him as he heads off to lead the Irish language broadcaster TG4. We wish him well for the future.”
BBC ALBA PRESENTS RICH AUTUMN SCHEDULE OF PROGRAMMES
BBC ALBA has unveiled its new schedule of programmes for Autumn 2016, featuring entertainment, factual and current affairs programmes plus music, children’s shows, sport, live events and new drama from Bannan.
Agnes Johnstone, wife of Scotland and Celtic legend Jimmy Johnstone, and much-loved Gaelic broadcaster, Cathy MacDonald, were among the attendees at the launch event held today (Wednesday 7 September) at BBC Pacific Quay, Glasgow, which was hosted by popular BBC ALBA presenter Fiona MacKenzie.
A wide range of exciting new commissions will be brought to the screen complementing the channel’s popular factual documentary series Trusadh, hard hitting current affairs series, Eòrpa, music series Seirm and kids’ favourite, Dè a-nis?.
Some of the new programmes featuring in the autumn line-up include:
Home from Home, a poignant documentary following some of the children and families who attend Scotland’s two children’s hospices, Rachel and Robin Houses. One of their visitors is five-year-old Eilidh from Alloa, who has a life-shortening illness – Chronic Intestinal Pseudo Obstruction with intestinal failure. Eilidh was referred to the children’s hospice Robin House in Balloch when she was only two years old. Eilidh and her whole family love it at Robin House and all go there around four times a year for respite care.
Hamish, a compelling and heartfelt tribute to the leading poet, intellectual and songwriter Hamish Henderson which has been co-funded by Creative Scotland. Scottish filmmaker, Robbie Fraser, directed the film which provides an insight into Henderson’s journey from orphan to cultural hero – as well as being cited as the catalyst for the folk revival in Scotland.
Folk-singer, musician and writer, Steve Byrne, who has been published in two volumes of the life and work of Hamish Henderson, was in attendance to perform one of Henderson’s best known songs ‘Freedom Come all Ye’.
For sporting viewers, Jimmy ‘Jinky’ Johnstone, a feature length personal profile of the legendary Scotland and Celtic football player which includes tributes from his wife, children, friends and fellow team mates.
Sàr-sgeoil / Outlander explores the locations across Scotland which are the backdrop for the Outlander novels and the popular TV drama. Cathy MacDonald meets Diana Gabaldon, the multi-million-selling author of the Outlander novels, to understand how Scottish history provided the inspiration for the chronicles and travels to some of the locations that are attracting Outlander fans from across the globe.
Musician Dougie MacLean was also present to highlight BBC ALBA’s music offerings including the return of the popular Perthshire Amber series. Dougie MacLean developed the Perthshire Amber Festival as a way to share his inspiring music as well as to celebrate the history and culture of his Perthshire home, and BBC ALBA will be bringing viewers highlights from the festival.
BBC ALBA’s original Gaelic drama Bannan will return in the autumn with its third series and filming in Skye for the fourth series already underway.
The channel also welcomes two new presenters, Kim Carnie (age 22 from Oban) and Mark Smith (age 19 from Shawbost, Lewis) who will be making their debut when they join the team on the ever-popular children’s programme Dè a-nis?, now in its 24th series.
Margaret Mary Murray, Head of Service for BBC ALBA, said: “We hope our new schedule will surprise and delight viewers of all ages across Scotland with the range and quality of new programmes from drama to factual documentary, sport, music and children’s delivered by some of the best programme producers and finest independent companies in Scotland.”
Among the highlights for this season are:
Factual
Music
Sport
Drama
Children’s
BBC ALBA is delivered through the partnership set up between the BBC and MG ALBA, the Gaelic Media Service, a unique broadcasting partnership providing a successful public service.
WIDE-RANGING POLITICAL SUPPORT FOR GAELIC BROADCASTING WELCOMED BY MG ALBA
MG ALBA, the Gaelic media service, said today that political support for Gaelic broadcasting remains wide-ranging and strong and is vital during the BBC Charter Review process.
Parliamentary motions paying tribute to the success of Gaelic broadcasting are being submitted in the House of Commons and in the Scottish Parliament this week and include support for efforts to secure a commitment to increasing the amount of original programming made for BBC ALBA.
Donald Campbell, chief executive of MG ALBA, said: “It is clear that our request for increased BBC investment in BBC ALBA as part of the new BBC Royal Charter is gaining support from across the political spectrum and it is greatly appreciated and welcome.
“Gaelic and Gaelic broadcasting has a history of enjoying cross-party support and it is gratifying to see that support remain so strong at a crucially important time.”
MG ALBA has urged the BBC to make a commitment to increasing the amount of original programming made for BBC ALBA from 4.5 hours per week to 10 hours – to achieve parity with the Welsh TV channel, S4C. At present MG ALBA commissions work from 20 independent production companies based in Scotland.
Donald Campbell added: “Put simply, we need the additional programming for BBC ALBA to thrive and progress. It is our belief that the BBC are listening – we hope that the parliamentary support being demonstrated through the Early Day Motion at Westminster, and the Motion at Holyrood, will help the BBC further understand the case for increased BBC investment in Gaelic broadcasting, as part of a consistent, considered approach to the UK’s minority languages.”
