Odd sort of event today. Some of the museum and heritage students are filming their case studies about an invented public library. A couple of us from the library and someone from the public library have been invited to come and be the 'audience'.

We'd kind of understood we were just being invited to see what they did, how they did it and take an interest in the whole process. Turned out on arrival that we were expected to sit on seats under the glare of the lights and not only be a 'real' tv audience but to ask questions of the presenters at the end of each group's talk and slides.

Given that absolutely nothing hung on it from our point of view, it wasn't go to be broadcast any where at all, and it really mattered not a jot - it's amazing how intimidating big broadcast quality cameras, studio lights, floor managers, microphones and 'sets' can be. On the other hand, it was interesting to see a bit of behind the scenes television and if nothing else sitting under the lights was the first time I've been warm in days.

The students did pretty well with what was clearly a really nerve wracking experience for them and I shall be interested to see the DVD product. If anyone has any tips on how to *look* relaxed while just sitting there, I'd love to hear. I was suddenly aware of every facial expression, every movement of hand, arm, leg - I've a lot more sympathy for politicians having to sit in front of audiences like that.