Natpe Content First Pitchcon returns in June

MUMBAI: The Natpe Content First PitchCon returns to the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel in the US from 7-8 June 2012 to provide independent content producers with access to influential, multi-platform media executives during two full days of clinics and educational sessions, pitch critiques and networking opportunities.

Natpe president, CEO Rick Feldman also announced that Oxygen?s The Glee Project will receive this year?s Innovator Award.

Previously known as LATV Fest and now in its second year under the PitchCon banner, the conference features a diverse lineup of speakers, hands-on sessions, workshops and master classes for those looking to advance their careers in the content business. Hot topics during the two-day event include multiplatform pitching, pitch prep, developing ideas and succeeding as an independent producer.

For five years, one of the main conference highlights has been the Innovator Award, which recognises achievement in unscripted programming. Recipients of the award showcase extraordinary passion and leadership, leveraging their platform in new, innovative and productive ways.

This year during a special luncheon and panel on 8 June, President of Oxygen Media, Jason Klarman; series Executive Producers, Michael Davies and Shauna Minoprio from Embassy Row; Casting Director and on-air mentor, Robert Ulrich; and choreographer and on-air mentor, Zach Woodlee, are confirmed to accept the award on behalf of the critically acclaimed reality competition series, The Glee Project.

The Glee Project, which averaged more than one million total viewers linearly over the course of its summer run and reached almost 45 million viewers on multiple platforms, is approaching its second season premiere on Oxygen this summer. The series serves as an audition platform for Fox?s Emmy- and Golden Globe Award-winning musical comedy-drama sensation, Glee, and the winner receives a seven episode arc on the show. Both shows were created and are produced by Ryan Murphy.

Feldman said, ?The Glee Project represents a truly unique and forward-thinking relationship between the worlds of unscripted and scripted programming and has delivered an exciting twist on talent discovery. Natpe is proud to honor this show and everyone associated with its early successes and bright future.?

Klarman said, ?Ryan Murphy has created a true pop culture phenomenon with Glee and The Glee Project. Oxygen is proud to be in business with him as the exclusive cable home for both series.?

Each episode of The Glee Project has an overall theme and contestants are asked to complete a series of tasks, including learning and practicing chosen songs before performing in front of a surprise guest judge; and creating a music video inspired by the famous performances on Glee. Callbacks and last chance recitals eventually reveal the contestants who will continue on to the next week of competition.