SASKATOON — For nearly 30 years, Saskatchewan Polytechnic Media Production students have received hands-on learning while supporting the community through volunteer hours at TeleMiracle.
Instructor Simon Lewis explains the experience at the 20-hour telethon is invaluable to students.
“This is an excellent opportunity for students to see how high-end mobile productions work,” he notes, explaining that students are able to work alongside members of the TeleMiracle production team, who bring experience from working on national live sporting events such as CFL and NHL games.
Second-year students in the program volunteer in multiple production areas during the live broadcast. During their shifts they take on roles in playback, helping the audio team and preparing live web calls during the telethon.
“The experience directly relates to what students are studying. Going inside a live truck is a unique opportunity that helps them see on-site media production structures,” says Lewis. “They also have a chance to network with industry professionals while making a difference in the community during a fun event.”
One of the courses students are currently taking is Multi-Camera Video Production. Volunteering behind-the-scenes at Telemiracle is an excellent example of this type of broadcast shares student Rohit Iyer. He is participating for the second year in a row.
“My experience at TeleMiracle last year was incredible. While I’ve been part of live broadcasts before, I had never worked on a production of this scale, with over 300 people in the crew. I had the opportunity to shadow various processes and professionals, learning from some of the best in the industry,” he says.
As Iyer approaches graduation, he looks forward to bringing even more knowledge and experience to the volunteer opportunity.
"I’m excited for this year, as I have even more responsibilities to take on. I’m especially looking forward to being present for the entire event and gaining as much knowledge and experience as possible,” he shares. “I’m eager to connect with the audio engineers and the dome truck team, as I aspire to be part of live broadcasts like this as a career.”
Iyer isn’t alone in relishing being in his element. For the second time, Lewis will direct the 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. production timeslot on Sunday morning.
“It’s fun to direct. I don’t get to do it as much as I once did. Students who are there during my shift will get to see me in full-blown director mode,” he notes. “Everyone has a role. Directing involves clear, concise communication, and students will see that. It’s about making sure what’s on air is continuous and uninterrupted.”
Sask Polytech students bring energy, eagerness and preparedness to set during their shifts, notes Lewis.
“Our students provide TeleMiracle with volunteers who are primed to be part of the production world. They’re familiar with various touchpoints in production and that versatility is an advantage as roles are handed out,” he explains.
Lewis says students will need to complete reports about the experience as part of their coursework.
TeleMiracle is broadcast live on TV and online starting with the countdown show at 6:15 p.m. on March 1. The telethon runs until 5 p.m. March 2. Funds raised during the event help individuals across the province by providing medical and mobility equipment and financial support to meet their needs.
Learn more about Sask Polytech’s Media Production program.
— Submitted by Sask. Polytech Media Relations
