Inclusive casting in unscripted TV with Mel Walden

The focus on diversity and inclusion in UK television is not a new one. But, in a climate where broadcasters and platforms are rightly being challenged to up their game in terms of representation on- (and off-) screen, the role of the casting department has never been more important.

This interactive workshop is designed to give those  working in casting - and those aspiring to do so - the tools they need to recruit effectively and responsibly across all aspects of inclusion. 

Who it's for

This workshop is aimed at those progressing in their casting career,  or interested in making a start.

What it covers

With a particular focus on casting for factual and factual entertainment, this session aims to give participants the confidence to approach and assemble a diverse cast of stellar contributors. It is a practical follow-up to our recent panel session on TV and diversity. Topics to be covered include:

• tips on effective outreach
• useful feedback from charities and organisations 
• current thinking around language usage

At the end of the 90minutes there will be plenty of time allowed for Q&A for those who wish to stay.

Speaker

Mel Walden has over 20 years’ experience working in factual and factual entertainment genres. In her role as a casting executive she leads the casting on ambitious projects or series with potentially sensitive casting issues. She writes the casting protocols, sets up the casting plan of attack and has a direct line to the broadcaster commissioning executives and lawyers. Mel is known for her work with under 18s and for her confidence in inclusive casting. Credits include Child Genius 1-4, Back In Time For Dinner/The Weekend, Bring Back Borstal, Million Pound Menu and the Stand Up To Cancer appeal films. Recent work includes casting children with limb loss for a new C4 programme.

This event is supported by the ScreenSkills Television Skills Fund which invests in training for the freelance television workforce thanks to contributions from the BBC, Channel 4 and Channel 5.

It is part of a ScreenSkills programme managed by the Indie Training Fund to support freelancers to upskill and stay connected, helping keep the industry resilient in these difficult times.

This session will take place online via Zoom. Click ‘get ticket’ to reserve your place: you must login or register before you are able to get a ticket for this event. A booking confirmation with a joining link to the session will be sent to you via email.

If you are no longer able to use your ticket, we ask you to please contact support@screenskills.com  so that we can release your place. Our sessions are often oversubscribed, so we’d like to give other freelancers the opportunity to fill available spots. Thank you for your consideration.