The BBC has announced an initiative to find and develop the UK’s next animation hit, whilst supporting and developing both existing and emerging talent within the genre.
Earlier this year Director, BBC Children’s & Education, Patricia Hidalgo pledged to invest in the development of the UK’s animation industry in a bid to create more home grown, UK shows that reflect the lives and culture of UK kids and offer an alternative to American cartoons.
Ignite will call for ideas from across the UK from both established independent production companies, BBC in-house production and individuals looking for their first break. The creative call out is looking to uncover “fresh, bold, innovative” ideas, which if successful will get funding to take them through the development process with the potential for a BBC commission.
The initiative will consist of three stages, the first of which will see up to twenty ideas given an initial funding pot. Further funding will be allocated at stages two and three for submissions that make it through each round. Sole creators who make it through the first stage will be paired up with a creative team to help build and develop their ideas. Commissioners will be looking for originality of ideas, innovative ways in which kids can engage with the show and its characters, the potential to develop the idea for multiple series, ideas that reach an underserved audiences, relatable storytelling, recognisable characters and international appeal.
Director, BBC Children’s & Education, Patricia Hidalgo said “We’re committed to helping the UK animation industry develop and thrive and I’m delighted that we’re able to launch this initiative. We know there is a wealth of creative talent across the UK and we want to give everyone an opportunity to showcase their ideas. But we not only want to uncover the best talent and ideas, we also want to support and nurture those ideas and the talent behind them.”
More details at www.bbc.co.uk/commissioning/ignite-animation
Jon Creamer
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