Caleb Grinsdale
Runner
About Me
Sizzle Reel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQv12EIxh7E
Video CV - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxn3bFNz8JoAt 25, my affection for TV motivated me to shift my focus towards an MA in TV Drama Production. Throughout the course, I studied modules in script-writing, directing and documentary production. I also produced short films and sequences,... Read More
Sizzle Reel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQv12EIxh7E
Video CV - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxn3bFNz8JoAt 25, my affection for TV motivated me to shift my focus towards an MA in TV Drama Production. Throughout the course, I studied modules in script-writing, directing and documentary production. I also produced short films and sequences, including a 40-minute drama from script-to-screen. As such I gained a breadth of knowledge and skills in every aspect of production.
The course also required us to work in groups on a project chosen from several pitches from industry professionals. Ours was to document the creation, rehearsal and opening night of a local theatre company, entrusted with producing a show around Cancer, working from a series of studies carried out by Bright Light http://www.brightlightstudy.com/.https://www.youtube.com/watch?fbclid=IwAR3H7saLSPAZLQ4sndMyad7Gok_Rn-8Rsv2_dnzdwLZgP0EfFOcZP2oGKRM&v=rTRbnaM0nas&feature=youtu.be
From a writer’s perspective, I’m influenced principally by British-made stories that tackle challenging subjects and aim to disperse stigmas, a recent example of such a show being Russell T. Davies’ IT’S A SIN. So I've written scripts focussing on complex issues like dual-diagnosis, transgender, non-binary and LGBTQ+ issues and abortion. Each one demanded extensive research to inform the writing.Two years as a support worker educated me on the many unique viewpoints of people with varying disabilities. It also showed me the lack of these views among the public and of appropriate representation on screen. I worked with people aged 6 to 50, all with differing conditions and therefore needs. I learned a lot about the challenges they face everyday, like access to transport or eating in public. I came to recognise the need for better facilities across society and I consider TV to be a powerful vehicle in extending awareness and triggering change. Of course there are successful examples such as Liz Carr and RJ Mitte, but I believe more can be done. As can be seen with the lack of research on 2020’s The Witches, which received backlash from people with limb impairments. Many agencies promote actors with disabilities such as VisABLE and YAFTA, through which, more opportunities are being created than ever. Working alongside the disabled community in creating relevant content is essential, not just with actors, but off-screen too. I believe that in order to strike the right tone, remain authentic and be effective in its message, we must prioritise their voices, provide them a platform and allow their ideas to lead the way.In America I was Department Head of Arts & Technology at an arts camp, working with children aged 7-17, many of whom were from low socioeconomic backgrounds and/or had learning disabilities such as ADHD and Autism. The campers produced short-films, documentaries, podcasts, radio shows, animations, scripts and music videos. I was able to use my MA experience to enhance the quality of the camper’s projects. In this role, I was the head of a team of 7 instructors of varying nationalities. I managed a budget, booked and led field-trips, trained my department, created new classes and generated curriculum maps and lesson plans. I directed multiple projects to completion, when they would be showcased to 300+ people. These showcases were every two weeks and my team and I received great, positive feedback from parents and senior staff.My passion for TV and Film also encouraged me to build and maintain a website covering releases from blockbuster films to smaller British series (www.thecouchguru.com). I designed and built the site entirely myself. With no prior experience in this area I had to conduct a deep level of research into the field of web-design and figure out how to make a user-friendly, brand-aligned website that was easy to edit and update. I then utilised my self-taught skills in Illustrator and Photoshop to create a fitting logo that suited the aesthetics of the site and reflected the fun nature of the brand. I frequently update the site with written reviews and articles which I thoroughly research before writing, ensuring all the information, names and references are accurate. With it being review based, I want to give a balanced and fully informed commentary on the pieces that I cover. I also run a series of Podcasts alongside the reviews with a mix of contributors from all over the country.My broad employment and academic history can attest to my aptitude for learning as well as my self-discipline. I am self-taught in a range of audio-visual software such as After Effects, Premiere, Logic Pro, Illustrator and Photoshop. Skills I now use in my role at TOAD Stationeryware Ltd to build my show-reel and further my employability in Television. This position also requires a working knowledge of MS Word / Excel and daily online communication between our various suppliers and customers.My experience is extremely varied, and has allowed me to become a flexible and dynamic professional who can be effective in any role. I believe I am well prepared for work in the TV industry and I am eager to expand my skill-set, grow my expertise and progress through a career in this field.Ultimately, I’d like to work as a Drama Producer, working on high-budget projects that can challenge opinions and hopefully shift perspectives on important issues, as TV Drama can be an effective tool in this way. I know however that that is many years down the line and in order to get there I am willing to start in any position that allows me access to the industry, so I can network, grow effective professional relationships and develop my experience in production from the ground up. Be this start as a production runner or office assistant I am a dedicated worker who will exceed expectations and prove an invaluable asset to any team. I am also willing to work in a voluntary capacity or at a lower rate if this will enable me to expand my experience and provide an access point into the industry. Read Less
Professional Training
Course / Qualification | Training Provider / Institution | Year |
---|---|---|
MA TV Drama Production / University of Salford / 2017 | ||
MA TV Drama Production | University of Salford | 2017 |
BSc Audio Technology / DeMontfort University / 2014 | ||
BSc Audio Technology | DeMontfort University | 2014 |