A new initiative has been set in motion to enhance the production of scripted drama in Scotland and Wales. This programme is expected to open up significant opportunities for local independent producers.
Broadcast and digital training organisation, TRC, in collaboration with BFI, has announced the International Horizons: Scripted programme. This initiative aims to enhance the skills, knowledge, and networks of nine independent production companies, enabling them to thrive in the international markets.
Programme Overview
Supported by the BFI, the TRC’s International Horizons: Scripted programme is a significant step forward for the industry. With a design spearheaded by BAFTA-nominated producer Caroline Levy, it promises to be a gamechanger for scripted drama in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales. Selected companies will gain unparalleled access to industry experts, aiming to expand their horizons significantly.
This initiative is expected to help independent companies secure international partners, providing them with essential tools and knowledge. The programme features an intensive six-month period focusing on business growth and sustainability in the competitive realm of scripted TV production.
Key Features of the Programme
The course, designed by Caroline Levy, is structured to support delegates in achieving their commercial and international ambitions. With Levy’s background in senior roles at Paramount and BBC Studios, the programme has a strong foundation.
Participants will benefit from attendance at Content London in December and will culminate with an international market visit in 2025. This exposure is intended to broaden their industry networks and increase opportunities for collaborations.
Industry Support and Expectations
Kieran Hannigan, Head of Scripted at Screen Scotland, spoke highly of the initiative. He emphasised the competitive nature of financing for scripted TV production and highlighted the importance of equipping independent companies with necessary tools to secure international partners.
The backing of TRC and the guidance of Caroline Levy are set to provide companies with valuable and practical learning experiences. This support aims to foster a robust growth environment for scripted drama in the participating regions.
Applications for the programme are now open to scripted indies in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales.
Comments from Key Figures
Claire Scally, Managing Director of TRC, expressed her excitement about the programme. She stated, “Building on the successful International Horizons brand, this programme will aim to expand the companies’ horizons internationally in what we hope will be a gamechanger for scripted drama in the Nations. We are excited to be supporting 9 companies in this endeavour.”
Joedi Langley, Interim Head of Creative Wales, also mirrored this sentiment. Langley highlighted the quality of home-grown scripted drama in Wales and the importance of such initiatives in helping local talent access new audiences and platforms.
The Role of Creative Wales
Creative Wales is playing a pivotal role in supporting this initiative. By collaborating with other UK nations, Creative Wales aims to help independent companies reach new heights. This support is crucial in enabling local talent to gain wider recognition.
Langley reaffirmed, “The quality of home-grown scripted drama coming out of Wales recently is testament to the talent we have here in Wales. In supporting this initiative Creative Wales is joining other UK nations to support our indies to reach new platforms and help them to access new audiences through high quality content.”
This unified effort is expected to significantly enhance the visibility and success of scripted dramas from Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
Programme Impact and Future Prospects
The programme’s impact is anticipated to be far-reaching. By the end of the six-month period, the participating companies should have a robust network of international contacts and a deeper understanding of the global market. This will be instrumental in driving their future growth.
The initiative’s success could potentially set a precedent for similar programmes in other regions. The model of using expert guidance, intensive training, and international exposure could be replicated to benefit other sectors within the television and film industry.
Application Process
Applications for the International Horizons: Scripted programme are currently open. Interested companies must be based in Scotland, Northern Ireland, or Wales.
Eligible companies are encouraged to apply to gain the invaluable benefits of this programme, which promises to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the competitive world of scripted drama.
The new initiative by TRC, supported by BFI and Creative Wales, stands to significantly enhance the scripted drama landscape in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales.
By providing comprehensive training, industry exposure, and network-building opportunities, this programme aims to empower independent companies to achieve international success in high-end drama production.