Our work in the creative industries
We understand the power of culture and creativity to enrich the lives of individuals and communities. Our students are encouraged to engage with professionals and industry leaders in the creative arts and our academics lead the way in creative innovation that shows best practice for the sector.
COVID-safety filming guidelines for student projects
As the COVID-19 pandemic hit, TV, film, and other media productions had to adapt the way they were made so they could keep everyone safe. We led a project to create COVID-safety filming guidelines specially tailored to higher and further education students on screen-related courses, as well as academics and support staff.
The student guidelines cover every aspect of filmmaking, including camerawork, directing, lighting, post-production, hair and make-up, and costume. They look at different genres and formats, advising on how to cast and rehearse while socially distancing, and maintain good mental health among cast and crew.
The project was a collaboration between ScreenSkills and academics at Middlesex, Goldsmiths, Bournemouth, Ulster and Edinburgh Napier universities, with input from other educators, lawyers and scientists. Guidelines were reviewed and endorsed by TV and film industry organisations, such as the British Film Commission, Pact and UK Screen Alliance.
Middlesex research helps musicians adapt to a new life online
When lockdown led to live performances being cancelled overnight, livestreaming looked set to become a lifeline for musicians. But many weren’t familiar with the relatively new concept and had questions about the technology, engaging with audiences and generating an income.
Middlesex instigated new research into livestreaming, particularly looking at optimum ways for musicians to earn money from online performances.
The research included a survey conducted in partnership with the Incorporated Society of Musicians, producers Serious, the Music Venue Trust, Musicians’ Union and the Sheffield Performer and Audience Research Centre (SPARC). Key findings will be disseminated to 50,000 UK musicians.
We used the research to produce an Open Access toolkit for musicians, featuring best practice guidelines, which we’re publishing in Spring 2021. Topics include staging virtual concerts, streaming platforms, methods of generating income, collaboration with venues, and online audience engagement.