The 2007 Broadcast

Location:  Buckingham Palace

Produced by:  BBC

Theme:  

 

On the fiftieth anniversary of her first televised broadcast, Elizabeth II reflects on the process of change, and how one becomes increasingly aware not only of change as one grows older, but also constant, unchanging values.  Recalling the diamond wedding anniversary she celebrated with the Duke of Edinburgh the previous month, Her Majesty emphasises the unchanging importance of a happy family.  The Queen reminds her audience that the Christmas story - the birth of Jesus - is also the story of a family.

Commentary:   

 

Here the BBC blended innovation with an impressive 'classic' look which would provide the template for the next few broadcasts.  Television technology had advanced over the past few years, which meant that the impressive interiors of Buckingham Palace (here the 1844 Room) could be seen in greater detail and in widescreen:  it was no longer a case of the Queen speaking from a desk in a corner.  Therefore, the BBC could take advantage of what is essentially an ideal ready-made set and returned to the enduring image of Her Majesty addressing her people from the Palace. 

The Queen's first televised broadcast from 1957 is used as the 'book ends' of this broadcast.  The original 1957 introduction (together with the playing of the national anthem) is used, and the Queen's opening words from that broadcast are heard.  The footage then blends into a monitor from which the Queen is seen to be watching, before Her Majesty begins her 2007 address.  At the end of the Broadcast, the Queen's festive greeting from the end of the 1957 message is replayed.

In a further development, this was the first Christmas message to be broadcast by Buckingham Palace on YouTube, on the newly created Royal Channel.

 

Notes:

 

This was the first time the 1844 Room had been used as the location for a Christmas Broadcast since 1961.

 

As well as providing an opportunity to observe technological developments between 1957 and 2007, viewers are also able to note any subtle changes in Her Majesty's accent over the period.

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