Not-for-profit takes on broadcasting world again and wins

Press Release: For immediate release

Radio programme produced in makeshift ‘blanket-fort’ studio beats multimillion dollar media corporations at international awards in London.

The Association of International Broadcasting (AIB) has just awarded a New Zealand radio programme the honour of Best Creative Feature at the 10th Annual AIB awards ceremony in London.

The one-hour radio drama, Newstalk BC, produced by Auckland based not-for-profit Christian Broadcasting Association (CBA), transports listeners to ancient Judea on the very first Christmas day where a news/talk radio station broadcasts from Jerusalem in 1BC.

The show was largely produced in an improvised makeshift studio comprised of an upturned sofa, blankets and cushions, yet was able to win against international competition, which included some of the largest media companies from more than 30 countries.

Partially funded by NZ On Air, Newstalk BC features a host of well-known voices including the Rt Hon John Key, Leighton Smith, Ian Mune OBE, John Hawkesby, Sir Peter Leitch and a range of other high profile New Zealanders reimagining the Christmas story for a news savvy 21st century kiwi audience.

Earlier this year the production won four awards at the New York Festivals ‘World’s Best Radio Programs™’ including Best Talk/Interview Special and Best Director.

Pat Brittenden, who co-wrote and hosted the programme said, "Surely this is one of New Zealand’s most successful hours of radio ever, having been recognised in NZ, New York and now London. It's been an honour to be a part of such a ground-breaking piece of radio."

Newstalk BC is being updated for Christmas 2014 where once again the team will reflect news and current events of the past 12 months while they intertwine the classic Christmas story re-imagined for the 21st century.

The full production can be heard at www.NewstalkBC.com .

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