BECTU's Freelancers' Fair Takes Place This Week

BECTU's Freelancers' Fair takes place on June 26 and offers visitors the chance to receive feedback on the pitching process at its seminar Pitching for Success.
Running for the second year in a row following a strong reception in 2008, BECTU has announced that this year's Pitching for Success panel will include:

• Emily Renshaw-Smith - Current tv
• Jane Stephenson - Community Channel
• Dominique Young - Al-Jazeera

Thanks to the space generously provided by BAFTA, places at the Fair are still available. Go to: www.bectu.org.uk/news/268 for more info and to book.
This year's other seminars are:

• Getting Started (aimed at new freelancers keen to find out how to get established); the panel includes BECTU president Tony Lennon, MD of Production Base, Joe Mahoney and Anna Stacey from the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills
• Directing the Camera: a masterclass-style session which will reveal and discuss the cinematographer's skills; and
• Breaking Through: Film-making which makes a difference whose panel will include leading film-makers Franny Armstrong (The Age of Stupid, McLibel) and Tony Garnett of World Productions whose credits reflect a long and ground-breaking career (some highlights: Cathy Come Home, Between The Lines, This Life, The Cops and Party Animals).

In addition, the Freelancers' Fair 2009 provides an important showcase for those involved in industry training. Some 25 exhibitors will provide information and advice on the range of training courses and also on tax returns and employment law. Looking ahead to this year's event, Tim Waters from accountancy firm, Hard Dowdy, which sponsors the Freelancers' Fair said:
"Hard Dowdy has developed a large portfolio of clients within the entertainment industry by building relationships with entertainment trade unions, theatrical agents and existing clients. I, together with my colleagues, will be happy to meet you on June 26 to discuss individual requirements."
(KMcA/BMcC)