BBC Academy Live presents Production Unlocked

An exciting programme of masterclasses, panel discussions and practical skills sessions focusing on production, taking place across the country.

Monday 21st September

Salford

Join us at BBC North in Media City as we bring together industry leaders and regional talent for skills sessions designed to showcase the North West's creative power and provide practical insights into the future of British production.

Time

Venue: BBC North, Quay House, Media City, Salford, M50 2EQ

Registration/Livestream Information

10:15-11:00

BBC Writers in Conversation with Danny Brocklehurst

Discover the realities of a career in television writing as acclaimed screenwriter Danny Brocklehurst (Ten Pound Poms, Brassic) shares stories from his professional journey and offers invaluable insights and advice for emerging writers seeking to break into the industry.

Hosted by Alice Ramsey, Commissioning Executive for BBC Writers and Drama.

Book your place 

• Livestreamed

11:15-12:00 

So We’re All Youtubers Now?

Creator led video sharing or global broadcaster? Broadcasters and YouTube collaborations go beyond casting influencers. Digital platforms are reshaping audiences and commissioning. Explore how to navigate the challenges and opportunities for Production Companies, Broadcasters and creator led indies in a rapidly evolving landscape. Hear from experts including:

  • Rick Murray - Founder and CEO of WorkerBee.

  • Fred Bhat - Executive Producer, Digital & Creator Content for BBC.

Book your place

• Livestreamed 

12:15-13:00

Talking a good Game

Reaching new audiences - increasing accessibility, engagement and visibility of Sport. From live events to rights free entertainment, this session explores the successful scaling and expansion of sport production and live events, from integrating with Entertainment, to embracing the big streamers, creators and digital platforms.

Helen Brown, Executive Editor, BBC iPlayer & YouTube for BBC Sport, joins industry leaders and content creators.

Book your place

• Livestreamed 

14:30-15:15 

Made of Greater Manchester

Celebrating the heart, humour and communities of Greater Manchester, the changing production landscape and growth, plus the arrival of the Edinburgh Television Festival from 2027. Hear from experts including:

  • Heidi Dawson - BBC Head of North of England, Controller, BBC Radio 5 Live.

  • Rob Page - Managing Director of Screen Manchester and Space Studio Manchester.

  • Cameron Roach - RTS North West Chair, Founder, Rope Ladder Fiction.

Book your place

• Livestreamed

15:30-16:15

All Drama Great & Small 

World-Building to Micro-Drama. From high-end and global scripted shows to new micro-episodes on digital platforms, British drama is growing despite the downturn. What skills and opportunities do you need to know about to navigate the changing Scripted landscape?

  • Angelo Abela - Head of Scripted Kids & Family, Lime Pictures.

  • Davina Earl - Executive Producer, Quay Street Productions.

Book your place

• Livestreamed 

16:30-17:15

Meet the Commissioners

Gain valuable insights from commissioners and content leaders from across the industry. Followed by a dedicated networking session in partnership with RTS North West, providing attendees with the opportunity to build connections with industry peers, commissioners and production professionals.

Book your place

* Livestreamed

Venue information

  • BBC North, Quay House, Media City, Salford, M50 2EQ

    Please arrive at Quay House at least 30 minutes before your session time to allow for airport security type bag checks.

  • Refreshments

    There are local outlets in the nearby area to purchase refreshments. Tap water will be available.

Livestream registration

Those unable to attend in person can register to watch the livestream via the link below:

Please note we won’t be accepting questions via the livestream. Live subtitles will be available.

Access requirements

  • If you have any access requirements please let us know.

    Email: academylive@bbc.co.uk

    • Please provide a contact number in case we need to get in touch with you for more information.
    • This event is 18+ only. 
Alert: Bookings

Please note that admission is not guaranteed, but is instead on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets are not therefore a guarantee of entry. As not everyone who asks for tickets uses them, and to make sure we have a full house, we do offer more tickets than there are places.

We do our best to get the numbers right, but unfortunately, we occasionally have to disappoint people. Please therefore arrive in plenty of time to try to secure your place at the event.

Highlights from past events

Watch the highlights promo from Production Unlocked in Glasgow.

Upcoming Production Unlocked events

Save the dates in your diary:

  • Production Unlocked Glasgow: Thursday 12th November 2026
  • Production Unlocked Bristol: Thursday 4th February 2026

Join the BBC Academy Live mailing list

Be the first to know and keep up-to-date about upcoming BBC Academy Live events, including Production Unlocked. These events take place across the country that you can be part of either in person or virtually. 

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