Twenty-five members of Film London’s Equal Access Network received a special behind-the-scenes glimpse of comedy legends Flight Of The Conchords

Twenty-five members of Film London’s Equal Access Network received a special behind-the-scenes glimpse of comedy legends Flight Of The Conchords as the duo prepped for a gig at the Hammersmith Apollo. The invite came from HBO Europe, who were recording the event for a live special, and offered attendees the chance to see just what it takes to capture a major live event on camera.

The event formed part of an ongoing programme of industry events organised by Film London as part of its Equal Access Network initiative – a scheme that seeks to ensure London’s screen industries represent the city itself. As well as talks, tours and masterclasses covering every facet of the industry, the initiative also seeks to secure paid opportunities for talented Londoners seeking to crack the worlds of film and TV.

The day started with an informative introduction from Bill Chase, HBO’s SVP, East Coast Production, who was joined by Hamish Hamilton and Simon Pizey of Done + Dusted, the UK’s biggest event and TV event company. Done + Dusted’s credits include the Oscars, Emmys, Olympics, as well as the infamous MTV Music Awards ceremony which saw Kanye West crashing Taylor Swift’s acceptance speech.

The three experts provided practical tips on everything from getting a foot in the door in a highly-competitive industry and making your mark once you’re there through to granular detail on what it takes to seamlessly shoot some of the world’s biggest live events. After this trio were grilled by members of EAN, fielding questions on everything from finding the perfect producer or DoP to lighting queries and how the changing technological landscape alters demand.

After this is was downstairs to watch the Conchords soundcheck, while smaller groups were taken to the outside broadcast van to see first-hand how the tech maestros made sure they were able to capture the band at their best.