Brianne: The Den

While flipping through the channels in Dublin I came across The Den, RTE Two’s children’s programming. The Den premiered on September 29, 1986 and broadcasts all over the Republic of Ireland. The air times are from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on weekdays and there is some programming on weekend mornings. Some former names of The Den are Dempsey’s Den, Den TV and Den2. The way that The Den works is that it is broken up into three different blocks that have a hosted segment in between shows. The first block is called "Wakey Wakey", and it is presented by Kathryn McKiernan from 7:15 to 9:00 a.m.


Kathryn McKiernan











The next block is one that is aimed at preschoolers called "Den Tots" and it is presented by Emma O’Driscoll and Soky from 9:00 a.m. to 2:35 p.m.


Emma O'Driscoll and Soky







The third block is call "The Club" and is also hosted by Kathryn McKiernan from 2:35 to 5:00 p.m. The end of the programming is capped off by "Dustin’s Daily News", presented by Dustin the Turkey and Snotser, and then RTE’s news report for children.

Dustin the Turkey














Saturday morning includes "Sattitude" and Sunday morning is when "Club Disney", which is obviously in association with The Walt Disney Company, airs.
I found The Den to be very similar in structure to the American children’s networks. All of the American children’s programming, such as PBS KIDS Sprout and Noggin, have hosted blocks that air in between shows such as "Sesame Street" and "Bob the Builder". The difference with The Den and American children’s programming is that since it is the only form of children’s television in Ireland they must cater to a much wider age range. Overall, I noticed that The Den is more liberal and a bit wackier than the children’s programming here. I’m glad that RTE recognizes the importance of giving kids a place to relax, be silly and have fun.


Dustin's Riverdance!!