RTÉ Industry Sessions @ CIFF
WED 18 | FROM 10:30 | FREE BUT TICKETED
Note: you can book a ticket to each individual session or book an All Day pass to all four sessions.
Cork International Film Festival and RTÉ Cork are delighted to present a day-long event for independent filmmakers, producers and event creators to attend and participate in key industry clinics and talks.
SCHEDULE
10:30 | Registration
SESSION 1
11:00-12:00 | Launch of the RTÉ Regional Round 2027
Discover the Next Big Opportunities for Regional Content
Be among the first to hear about RTÉ’s Regional Round 2027 and the opportunities it will create for producers, filmmakers and storytellers across Ireland. This dynamic discussion will explore how partnerships between broadcasters, cultural organisations and educational institutions are helping to unlock new ideas, new audiences, and new funding models. If you're looking to develop ambitious content with regional roots and national impact, this is the place to start.
Format: Expert presentations, case studies and audience Q&A.
Panel
Sean Mac Giolla Phadraig, Managing Editor, Video, RTÉ
Virginia Teehan, Chief Executive Officer, The Heritage Council & Executive Producer
John Fitzgerald, Executive Producer, University College Cork
Heidi McAlpin, Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund Manager, Northern Ireland Screen
Host
Colm Crowley, Head of RTÉ Regional Commissioning and RTÉ Cork
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SESSION 2
12:30-13:30 | Beyond Broadcast: The Commissioning Editor of 2030
What Will RTÉ Be Looking for Next?
The media landscape is changing faster than ever. Join RTÉ’s senior commissioning leaders for a candid conversation about the future of content, audiences and storytelling. From Drama and Entertainment to Young People’s and Factual, discover what commissioners are looking for now, what skills producers need to succeed, and where the biggest opportunities lie in a digital-first world.
Panel
Alan Tyler, Group Head of Entertainment & Music, RTÉ
Suzanne Kelly, Group Head of Young People's Content, RTÉ
David Crean, Head of Drama, & Comedy Drama RTÉ
Sean Mac Giolla Phadraig, Managing Editor, Video, RTÉ
Host
Dr Ciara Chambers, Head of School of Film, Music & Theatre, University College Cork
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SESSION 3
14:30-15:30 | The Business of Funny: Inside RTÉ Comedy
How Great Comedy Gets Made
From breakthrough talent to hit series, what makes comedy connect with audiences today? Join RTÉ’s Head of Comedy and leading industry voices for an entertaining and insightful look inside the world of comedy commissioning and production. Featuring real-world case studies and practical advice, this session offers a rare behind-the-scenes view of how great comedy ideas become successful shows.
Format Expert presentations, case studies and audience Q&A.
Speaker
Mark Bignell & Host, Head of Comedy, RTÉ
Panel
Leading comedy producers and creators, including representatives from JOE.ie
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SESSION 4
16:00-17:00 | Business Affairs & Rights Clinic for New Production Companies
Turn Great Ideas into Sustainable Businesses
Creating great content is only half the challenge. This practical clinic will help emerging producers and production companies understand the commercial realities of the industry, from contracts and rights management to co-production opportunities, distribution, and accessing international markets. Packed with expert advice and real-world guidance, this is an invaluable session for anyone looking to build a successful content business. Format Expert presentations, case studies and audience Q&A.
Panel
Edel Edwards, RTÉ Head of RTÉ International Programme Sales
Conor Sweeny, RTÉ Production Executive/Lawyer
Ian O' Brien, Head of RTÉ Independent Production Unit, Business and Finance
