Downton Abbey producer, Carnival Films has launched a new initiative to nurture and develop the next wave of TV series writers.
The ‘Collective’ initiative is a series of “in-depth sessions”, aimed at training and guiding emerging writers in responding to targeted broadcaster-led briefs and will help them to work on their ideas in a collaborative environment.
Spearheaded by Carnival’s Head of Development, Jo Strevens, Development Producer, Tara Cook and Development Executive, Claire Daxter, the ‘Collective’ brings together writers at an “exciting stage” of their careers, including scriptwriter Grace Ofori-Attah (In the Long Run), screenwriter Ben Lewis (Psychobitches), writer Roanne Bardsley (Hollyoaks), playwright James Fritz (Parliament Square) and comedy and drama duo Matilda Wnek and Ryan O’Sullivan (Other People).
Carnival aims to create a fresh development slate with the Collective talent, in direct response to broadcaster needs.
Gareth Neame, Executive Chairman, Carnival Films says: “We are always seeking to expand our horizons in terms of the best writing talent, and take our responsibility to nurture talent very seriously. ‘Collective’ is a great way of doing just that and we’re delighted to be working with some of the most exciting, emerging creative voices coming out of the UK today.”
Grace Ofori-Attah adds: “Writing can be a very solitary occupation. Having the opportunity to sit down and discuss your ideas with a group of talented writers, as well as experienced development executives in an open, safe and supportive environment is invaluable. The scheme will challenge me to step outside my comfort zone and give me the confidence to really run riot with my ideas.”
Matilda Wnek and Ryan O’Sullivan also add: “We’re thrilled to participate in a collaborative process with other creatives, as it allows us to explore and interrogate our premise during the early development of our idea. It’s great that Carnival has provided such an experience and we are excited to hopefully take our show to the next stage.”
Staff Reporter
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