BBC Wales is setting up a new scheme, Find Me Funny, aimed at writers who lives or work full time in Wales and those who can ‘represent Welsh culture with authenticity’ in order to create three brand new comedy programmes for BBC One in Wales.
Sitcoms and comedy-dramas found through the scheme will have pilots made to air in 2018 and 2019; the pilot that has the most successful response will be commissioned as a series.
Speaking at an industry event in Cardiff the head of commissioning for BBC Wales Nick Andrews said: “Wales has funny bones – we’re a nation of comedy greats such as Ruth Jones, Rob Brydon and Rhod Gilbert, to name but a few.
“Now BBC Wales is looking for the next generation of comedy drama and sitcom writers. We’re looking for a new and fresh look at the lives and characters of contemporary Wales and exciting and inventive voices that reflect the diversity of this country.”
Shane Allen, the BBC’s controller of comedy commissioning commented: “This is a very exciting opportunity for us to unearth and support the next wave of Welsh comedy talent in a very practical and focused way.
“Gavin & Stacey was a smash hit BBC sitcom filmed in Wales, with prominent Welsh portrayal at its heart, that audiences continue to love – we’d like to build on that by giving a leg up to newer comedy writers and performers who are looking for their break.”
Anne Edyvean, Head of BBC Writersroom, says: “We’re delighted to be working with BBC Wales on this exciting new opportunity for Welsh writers. We’re really looking forward to reading scripts that tell surprising and funny stories about today’s Wales.”
Writers in Wales have two months to complete their 30 minute long pilots, meeting the 15th January deadline. If you need an tips then the organisers say they are not looking for any mockumentaries but writers can submit two scripts that have been previously produced. They can also submit scripts with or without a production company attached.
For more information click here!
