Group Task: Styles Of Programs

Three examples of presentation in lifestyle programs (as presented by the group):

1. Top Gear first ever Cool Wall
2. Jamie Oliver on knife skills - 30-Minute Meals
3. Antiques Roadshow - Hanbury Hall 1 - Introduction

The type of skills required by a lifestyle presenter can vary, depending on how scripted the dialogue is. These skills include the following:

• a good grasp and general knowledge of the field being presented.
• an easy to understand and comprehensible take-in of information, for the viewer. 
• friendly and relaxed reassurance for the audience, so they know they are safe. 

Additional notes from other groups:

• Quiz Shows - Pointless, Catch Phrase and Mock the Week. They plant questions in a formal yet friendly level. This makes for a witty and friendly atmosphere, and comes off as a conversation to the viewer. Neil Armstrong of Pointless comes off as humorous in his mockery of the contestants and their answers. For Catch Phrase, the host far less formal yet still interactive with live audiences and more knowing of his guests. As for Mock the Week, presenter Darah O'Brien has comedy guests on his show, as humor is integrated in the narrative making for a quick-paced feel. The country's best comedians attend in order to entertain the masses. 
• Game Show - The Cube: calming and encouraging contestants alongside an informative host. Rules are outlined and tips given in order to help the contestants. The action does most of the talking, with the presenter acting more as a mentor/guide. As for Family Fortunes, Vernon Kay is a very amble and engaging presenter, getting to know the contestants and audience both, making them more comfortable in their environment. The Chase's presenter meanwhile is on the side of the contestants, often sparring with the chasers. In addition, he has a very outgoing and expressive manner of presenting. 
• Reality TV - RuPaul's Drag Race sees contestants (predominately male) dress up in female, drag queen costumes. The presentation is exotic and expressive, with very sexual yet satirical dialogue. It is intended to entertain and make the audience laugh. A bubble like vibe, with the theme need not be taken seriously as the tone is far from serious. Contestants play dress-up. X-Factor sees the presenter give a very formal and scripted act to the live audience and those at home. There are dramatic pauses in between of the revealing of which acts shall remain on the show, giving a dramatic feel, putting audiences on edge. The tone is serious and formal. Punk'd sees unwillingly and unknown participants be pranked in pre-staged pranks. The host (Ashton Kutcher) is loud, obnoxious and sweary. The tone appeals to a younger audience as well as the fast-pace of the narrative. 
• Children's TV - Take Hart (1977) gave a posh and informal presenter, contrasting modern day children TV presenters. Most of the action speaks for the viewer, as a combo of stop-motion animation is used and the presenter's activities (along with background music) engage the viewer. Children would get bored of someone constantly talking so this works to great effect. Smart sees more of a childish and funny approach, as the presenter draws from the audience a lot. Plus the presenters all come across as friends, making for a relatable atmosphere. Mr. Maker is far more influenced by the child-like audience, as numerous sketches show interactivity, childish games and a playful tone. Weird background noises and music is used. Puppets are involved. Puppets.
• Documentary - the presenter acts as a guide and a scholar, offering knowledge from the field of expertise and educating their audiences. The audiences vary, with many subjects being covered under the documentary genre. David Attenborough offers a gentleman-like and mild-mannered presentation of his documentaries. Nowadays he rarely takes front and center for the camera, instead offering commentary. Nevertheless, the camera was never about focusing on Attenborough but the subject at hand. He offers a calming and relaxing environment; meanwhile, Ross Kemp is far more serious in his investigation and presenting, focusing on the dangerous aspects of the world, such as drug cartels and ISIS.
• Chat Shows - mostly reality based with celebrities and average people attending, be it as participants or viewers or both. Examples include Loose Women, Jerry Springer and Jeremy Kyle. Style of presentation would be very laid-back and interactive. They control the narrative and move the show along as well as continuing events on the show.