Petrie in Pink, Tutankhamun on Fire: Egyptology on Television

Petrie in Pink & Tutankahmun on Fire

Egyptology on TV

Dr Chris Naunton The Egypt Exploration Society

Exploring and Inspiring since 1882www.ees.ac.uk

The challenges of translating research for TV

Subtleties & nuance ironed out

Definitive answers only required

3-words-per-second rule

‘it is likely / not impossible / the most plausible scenario’ is replaced with ‘it is’ ‘we cannot rule out’ tends to get lost!

Understanding the need for compromise

Need to lose the instinct to cover all bases and provide justification

Clear and concise, aesthetically appealing

Television is entertainment for most – audience is not guaranteed, constant need to hold attention

Aim is to grab the audience and pass on as much info as possible while you’ve got their attention

Failure to compromise would lose the audience entirely

Trusting the film-makers – they are really good researchers, writers etc.

And very understanding and willing to listen

Being a presenter

Opportunity to reach an audience

Fantastic privilege

Great fun

Importance of humour

Your work is no longer entirely in your hands...

Press & Media promotion is part of the job – representing the research in a less controlled environment

Can sometimes be something of a dramatic / almost fictional element to things

Vital part of our work

How to get involved

Build yourself a profile / reputation

www.ees.ac.uk