The prestigious Censors’ Room at the leading London conference venue is the focal point in this month’s BBC MasterChef: The Professionals.
The programme is transmitted on Wednesday 21 October at 20.15 on BBC2. Filmed on a quiet Sunday to avoid clashes with other events at the RCP, it sees the three finalists preparing a meal for seven senior officers of the College, including its President and Treasurer.
The Censors’ Room is used for the College’s most important ceremonial occasions, and by client organisations seeking an exclusive, uniquely historic location for private meetings and celebrations. Its elegant dining table and chairs are complemented by Spanish Oak panelling - which dates back to 1674 - a splendid gilt chandelier, portraits and sculptures.
Using the College’s extensive kitchens, the MasterChef contestants prepared courses with historic connections, and were given the opportunity to use herbs from the College’s own ‘Physic garden’, which includes plants from around the world and is a popular venues for garden parties.
Its role in MasterChef is the latest in a long line of occasions where the RCP’s prestigious surroundings and comprehensive support facilities have been used by media and film companies. The forthcoming new BBC1 ‘Material Girl’ romantic comedy, starring Dervla Kirwan, includes a scene in the College’s stunning Council Chamber – a popular location for business meetings. Capable of hosting events for up to 70 people, the Chamber was ‘converted’ into a ‘Fashion Council’ meeting room for a key scene.
Shortly before this event, the RCP also played a role in filming for the sequel to the highly successful 'Nanny McPhee' feature film, which is expected to come to cinemas next year. The College's facilities were booked by the film's production company while it was on location in nearby Park Crescent, as a make-up and wardrobe centre for more than 100 extras who were involved in the shoot.
“Our location, our award winning architecture and our combination of modern facilities and a unique heritage clearly give us a star quality in the eyes of the media,” commented Clive Ostler, the Colleges General Manager, Marketing & Facilities: “ There’s no doubt that the increased visibility can also help draw in new customers.”