Fun At The Festival
The Radio Festival is said to be a great opportunity for people in “the industry” to network with each other. This year, like last, it’s being held in Cambridge and I’m heading there today in the hope of hearing stimulating debate and dialogue from my colleagues in the world of broadcasting. I’m an optimist, you see.
Last year’s Festival received some justified criticism for the scarcity of women as platform speakers. The debates also had an ad hoc feel to them. This year should be better. The Festival has a new boss - Trevor Dann – and there isn’t much he doesn’t know about production.
Yet some say the important stuff actually happens in the tea-breaks, when people get the chance to exchange full and frank views with their contemporaries. The Very Important people have actually developed the skill of talking to you without actually listening to a word you’re saying. Their eyes dart over your shoulder as they look for someone more interesting.
Two years ago, when the Radio Festival was in Edinburgh, I spotted one of the supremos of U.K. radio and strode towards her, my hand outstretched.
“Aha, “ she said, her eyes flickering with recognition, “I know who you are!”
I was flattered.
“Yes, I’m Jeff Zyc…”
“Yes, “ she said, “you’re my taxi driver aren’t you? Well. I’m so glad…I thought I was going to miss my flight.”
I should have been insulted, but then again, she was a great tipper.
