What a Producer does: Creator, Curator and Commentator
Last month was sobering. It is truly humbling to experience this blog contributing to our industry outside of the content Unedited makes for commissioners.
I had the honour of attending the London Podcast Festival, where two presentations featuring some of my previous work, including one of our blogs, The Art of Conversation and Unique is Better. In addition, I spoke to a university lecturer who mentioned that they used Unedited's Thursday Tips on social media as part of the course material. Thank you all for the recognition and continued endorsement of our work. I will continue to give ‘free game’ (knowledge) for as long as possible.
Fresh from judging on Audio UK's Audio Production Awards (APAs), I'd like to spend this blog reflecting on the role of a producer. The APAs specifically focus on the craft of audio content, which usually highlights the producer at the centre of production. With the different and evolving types of audio output (podcasts, radio shows, audiobooks, etc.), our jury panel reconsiders what a producer actually does. What can you expect from someone who introduces themselves as a producer?
In an online workshop, which I've delivered a few times, I delve into the extrinsic role of a producer (which can be shared by an Executive Producer depending on the scale and budget for the project). In a nutshell, a producer's role, in its broadest context, is to solve problems on the project—whether they are people problems, technology or skills problems, and of course, money (more specifically, managing money) problems. This is one side of the coin, one perspective of what a producer brings to a successful project. This is the external view of producing and is very similar to a producer's expectations in other creative sectors, e.g. TV, film, theatre, etc.
But then, there's producing in the storytelling context - the intrinsic or internal perspective. Here, a producer needs to be flexible with their hats to deliver creative content with high production values. The three hats are The Creator, The Curator, and The Commentator.
Creator
They bring new ideas to life, crafting stories that resonate and engage audiences in ways they haven't experienced before. Whether it's an original sound sequence, an interview, or a script, a producer creates something that would otherwise not exist.?
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Curator
A producer here assembles the appropriate elements to tell a more nuanced and compelling story. They act as curators, bringing together sounds, voices, and information to give a bigger picture or a new perspective on something we already know.?
Commentator
Adding context and a layered narrative to something already existing is another crucial role of a producer. This involves providing commentary that enriches the content, offering insights and perspectives that deepen the audience's understanding and connection to the story.
In essence, a producer in storytelling is a multifaceted role that requires creativity, curation, and commentary. It's about being flexible and adaptable, solving problems, and creating narratives that captivate and inspire. It’s also about taking responsibility for the project. Often, the takeaway from a project is a success or otherwise is in how engaged the producer is. I have recently worked with a producer who went above and beyond to get the show across the line. There are also experiences at the other end of the spectrum.?
Ultimately, the key characteristic of a successful producer is our credibility. When our name is mentioned in a circle of peers, it sparks examples of great conversations about what we’ve done and how we have contributed to projects or supported development; you’re doing the right thing.
To all the nominated and unsung producers in the audio industry, I look forward to seeing you all at the Audio Production Awards on 20th November. Let’s raise a glass to us.
What are your thoughts about the role of a producer, senior producer or executive producer? Don’t hesitate to drop me a line on LinkedIn.
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