BBC mentors comedy writers

BBC SCOTLAND has launched a new Comedy Writers’ Programme to support new Scottish comedy writers.

The scheme will follow a similar model to the BBC Writersroom drama writing programme, which partners writers and independent production companies together to develop television dramas.

The Scottish Comedy Writers Programme will partner a writer with a Scottish based independent company to develop and write a pilot episode script for an original comedy series for BBC1, BBC2 or BBC3.

Taking part are production companies Happy Tramp North, which will be working with Bryce Hart; BBC Studios, which will be working with Lorna Martin; Young Films, which will be paired with

Kieron Nicholson; and The Comedy Unit, which will be working with Susan Riddell.

Over six months to a year, the writers will work alongside their allocated Independent Production Company to develop their idea.

Gregor Sharp, comedy commissioning editor at the BBC says: “Nurturing new talent is central to everything we do in BBC Comedy, so we couldn’t be happier to announce this joint initiative with BBC Writersroom.

“Script development is the engine room of comedy and it’s crucial writers are given the licence to find their voices and hone their craft in a supportive environment, which our excellent producing partners will provide.

“Scripted comedy in Scotland is at an all-time high but we are always looking for the next great idea and can’t wait to see what the selected writers come up with.” www.bbc.co.uk