DreamBIG! The Midway Point
Brandon shares his experience at production company famed for The Gruffalo
Halfway Through My Dream Role at Magic Light Pictures
Reaching the halfway mark of my ScreenSkills-funded placement with Magic Light Pictures feels like a dream come true. This journey has been nothing short of incredible.
DreamBig Bootcamp: Laying the Foundation for TV Production
It all began with the week-long DreamBig boot camp, a transformative experience that introduced us to the world of TV production. Industry experts shared their insights, and the lineup of guest speakers was truly inspiring. The wisdom and advice they provided were invaluable, and meeting these professionals alone made joining the scheme worthwhile.
During boot camp, we explored crucial topics such as child licensing, chaperoning, and safeguarding – all essential aspects of the Children’s TV industry. These foundational lessons were vital for understanding how to create content for young audiences. The depth of knowledge we gained was extraordinary and left me feeling well-prepared for my placement.
From Bootcamp to Magic Light Pictures
Following boot camp, I joined the team at Magic Light Pictures, celebrated for their award-winning titles like The Gruffalo, The Gruffalo’s Child, and Tabby McTat. As a production assistant, I’ve been exposed to opportunities I never imagined possible. One highlight was attending my first-ever premiere for Tiddler, the 12th special inspired by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beautiful work. I had the chance to sit in on the orchestra recording, assist with cast interviews, and observe the directors and producers as they finalise the project. These moments solidified my passion for the children’s animated media industry, and I owe it all to DreamBig.
In my role, I manage the day-to-day operations of production. My tasks include organizing and updating trackers, managing assets and designs, taking detailed notes during meetings, and reviewing work. While this might sound routine, it’s anything but. I witness every stage of the production pipeline, learning from talented professionals at every step. It’s like assembling a puzzle, where each piece plays a vital role. Being part of the process that brings everything together is incredibly rewarding.
The role demands excellent organizational and time management skills, as production moves at a rapid pace. Balancing these moving parts is challenging but immensely fulfilling. Attention to detail is key, and every day brings new learning opportunities and experiences that keep me excited.
I’ve recently joined the series production team at Magic Light Pictures, which has introduced me to an entirely new set of challenges and opportunities. Series work is distinct from specials, and the knowledge I’m gaining is already proving invaluable.
Looking Ahead: The Journey Continues
Reflecting on my journey so far, I’m proud of how much I’ve grown and developed during this placement. Every day at Magic Light Pictures is a unique adventure filled with challenges and learning experiences. The foundation provided by the DreamBig Bootcamp has been instrumental in my success, and I’m eager to see what the remainder of my placement holds.
For anyone dreaming of a career in TV, I encourage you to take the leap and seize opportunities like this. With the support and guidance I’ve received, I’m more determined than ever to continue contributing to this vibrant industry. The future looks bright, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next.
A huge thank you to Magic Light Pictures, ScreenSkills and thinkBIGGGER! for providing me with this incredible opportunity and supporting me every step of the way.
