Broadcast and digital training organisation, TRC, has announced a new initiative to boost scripted drama production in the nations.
Supported by the BFI, International Horizons: Scripted, is designed to help indies get more opportunities in high-end drama in international markets.
TRC said it would equip 9 indies with the skills, knowledge and networks to “thrive in the competitive world of scripted drama.”
“Working with the national screen agencies we have developed International Horizons Scripted to champion Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales’s scripted drama companies,” said Claire Scally, Managing Director of TRC.
“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.”
The course has been designed by BAFTA-nominated producer and executive producer Caroline Levy (Deadwater Fell, A Gentleman in Moscow and Hooten & The Lady) who has held senior roles at Paramount and BBC Studios.
Successful delegates will be supported in reaching their commercial and international potential through an intensive 6-month programme focusing on sustaining and growing business with unrivalled access to industry experts.
The programme will also fund attendance to Content London in December and will culminate with an international market visit in 2025.
“Financing for scripted TV production has never been more competitive and we know equipping our Indies with the tools to secure international partners is key to their success moving forward,” added Kieran Hannigan, Head of Scripted at Screen Scotland.
“It’s fantastic to be able to support this exciting new program from TRC, with their enviable track record of delivering brilliant professional development across the UK. We are confident that under the guidance of Caroline Levy, the companies will gain valuable and practical learning through International Horizons Scripted.”
Applications are now open to scripted indies based in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.
Joedi Langley, Interim Head of Creative Wales, stated:
“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.”
