THE DRAMA that we see on our television screens can be years in the making and as a first step in producing high-quality TV dramas in the Irish, The Irish Language Broadcast Fund, TG4 and BBC Gaeilge are taking the first steps this year.
The three bodies are running a drama development scheme and are looking for applications from production companies who have relevant experience in the development and production of drama and who can develop and provide training to new talent.
The scheme aims to develop 4 - 6 Irish language writers who do not have experience writing for screen and to develop a new television drama series.
“We are looking for applications for a series with a strong sense of drama/storytelling as well as imaginative visuals,” said a spokesperson for all three.
“We are particularly seeking a contemporary and light series with a wide audience appeal similar to Derry Girls, Fleabag, Catastrophe, The Young Offenders & This Way Up.”
The plan is also to give training to aspiring dramatists in the Irish language.
“We are also looking for a development plan for between four and six new Irish language writers who may have some writing experience but who have not written drama for screen before.
“TV companies will have to provided a plan detailing how these writers will be found along with the support and training they will give them to ensure that they will be able to write a draft script for at least one episode of the television drama.”
The training and development should be provided through the medium of Irish as much as is possible.
The deadline for the scheme is July 10th at 5pm and decisions will be announced before the end of July.
:: Just when you thought there was no light at the end of the lockdown tunnel, our national treasure, Daniel O’Donnell, is inviting us to his Donegal home for an entertaining series on TG4, Daniel sa Bhaile, a programme full of music and chat to give support and hope to the nation.
Dan the man will have a variety of guests on the programme to talk about everything under the sun and how they are coping with the lockdown.
His first guest is Moya Brennan of Clannad.
:: Daniel sa Bhaile kicks off on Sunday, 7 June at 6.40pm
