Events

ISRAEL INTERNATIONAL COPRODUCTION MARKET
Helping to launch 140 coproductions and providing investments of $23 million into Israeli documentaries over the past 10 years, the Israel International CoProduction Market returns from May 27 to June 2 in Tel Aviv. The event - which started with four visiting commissioning editors and has grown to over 35 guests from around the world this year - will be filled with producer-friendly activities. One, a workshop called 'Islam in Documentary,' will be hosted by Aaqil Ahmed (Channel 4). There will also be a new media conference hosted by Claire Aguilar (ITVS), Rudy Buttignol (Knowledge Network), Alex Szalat (ARTE France) and Franz Grabner (ORF1 and 2). 'Close-Encounters' is a new addition to the event - it's a forum for international indie producers and Israeli filmmakers intended to foster copros. And there will also be the return of DocuShuk, the event's market for completed films. AA
[online: www.copro.co.il]

Banff World Television Fest
The Banff Fest entices the industry to the Rockies this year with new program strands. Held from June 8 to 11, it will debut workshops like 'The Craft,' which will give writers, directors and producers the chance to interact, while in 'The Biz' panel, experts will break down legal and business affairs. A keynote to watch for is Jana Bennett, director of BBC Vision, as she discusses BBC's 360 Commissioning. For producers, pitch away during the 'UKTV Lifestyle Pitch' session. Once that's done, try to bowl over a commissioning editor. That opportunity goes to four lucky winners of the Bowl with a Decision Maker contest. KA
[online: www.banff2008.com]