Four Bremen High School District 228 Communication Arts and Technology students had the amazing opportunity to be part of the production crew for the live broadcast of the 65th Chicago/Midwest Regional Emmy Awards show. The show took place on November 11th.
The students, who are all part of the BDTV 228 program, consist of Oak Forest student Matthew Angone, Tinley Park student Jade Cross and Bremen students Talea Carter and Lakayiah Thomas. According to their teacher, Michael Lynch, their professionalism and flexibility were recognized by many of the people they worked with during the almost twelve hour event, representing our schools and program in the best way possible.
“This amazing opportunity came to me from former BDTV 228 alum Ronan Morrisey, who was one of the executive producers of the 65th Annual Chicago/Midwest Regional Emmy Awards Show,” Lynch said. “I am so proud of the students involved. To see BDTV 228 students thrive in a professional environment validates the Communication Arts & Technology program.”
The students were very excited about the opportunity.
“Mr. Lynch had sent us an email about the event, and it sounded really cool and fun,” said Lakayiah, who edited speeches by award recipients for YouTube. “I knew I could make some really good connections for college, and see if this is really what I wanted to do for a living… Producing and the whole show was really cool to be a part of.”
Matthew and Talea had the role of camera operators and were in control of graphics and cinematography.
“It was the first time D228 ever participated in the Emmy’s and we didn't know what we were getting into. We thought that we would be shadowing the professionals but when we got there it turned out we were the ones who had almost full control,” said Matthew. “It was an entire day that took lots of time to set up and plan. It took a lot of effort from the entire team that went behind the production. I'm just glad I could help out and be a part of such a big event. I learned a lot and it was a pleasure working with such an amazing and talented team.”
“My experience was very enjoyable and educational, getting professional experience just confirms my love for the entertainment/film industry and desire to continue,” Talea said. “Taking Communication Arts and Tech led to this opportunity and I’m grateful.”
Jade had a great time at the Emmy Awards, and had the job of creating clips from the livestream for YouTube.
“We recently put on our own production for the senior communication arts class at Bremen, but this was on an even larger scale, so I was a bit nervous but had the needed skills,” Jade said. “Everyone was welcoming and helpful, making the night that much more enjoyable. My job was to watch the production live from YouTube and make clips of each given award and speech that followed for people to go back and watch for years to come. Being on the technical side showed me how much really goes into these types of productions and gave me a newfound respect and passion for it. I’m proud to say I learned a lot and broadened my horizons in relation to the industry and Chicago.”