Introducing the 20th Century Community Centre

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But where do you get the programming equipment for mobile purposes? Well, certainly there's always the cable company. However a great deal of their equipment will either be in use making studio productions with groups, such as yours or being serviced. So, you may have to find other ways of locating equipment. The first place to look is the educational institutions. In fact, you'll find that most Community Colleges have very elaborate audio visual departments, and after all, you're paying for it. You might try local high schools. If they do have equipment, it's only being used between 9 and 4. Usually though, Boards of Education are reluctant to let "outsiders" use their equipment, but a persuasive group can usually get results working through a trustee. Libraries and private companies are other areas you might also try.

Putting it all together

It's true you don't need a script, but you do need a plan. A plan that will make your show easy to shoot and easy to watch. Many cable programmes are of the "talk show" variety. It's probably not the most stimulating format in the world, but it certainly is the simplest, so that might be one consideration. You can use your imagination to come up with a more provocative format. You might try using more people and having them well prepared to say something. Or perhaps you might try using two or even three sets (locations within the studio). And whether you shoot your programme "live" or tape it, shoot to your plan. There's nothing wrong with spontaneous television. In fact, it's to be encouraged. But even the most spontaneous programmes have evolved from a well-thought out plan.

There are aids that you can use, too. Like graphics. They're drawings or still photos or words or sentences that you can use to stress what you're trying to say. Or you might try using a Telecine unit if your cable company has one. It converts motion pictures or slides to television. In fact, many good programmes are built around 35mm slides or 16mm movies. And you should always try to think of a stimulating introduction and a strong ending. Throughout the show it's always a good idea to explain who you are, what you are doing and how viewers can contact you. It's people like yourself who can help make community programming the Twentieth Century Community Centre.

ROGERS CABLE

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