This new scheme offers five successful applicants £20,000 each to be trained and guided through the development process of writing their own original screenplay. It is aimed at Black, Asian and minority ethnic writers, who are currently under-represented in the UK screen industry.
Over the course of three months, each writer selected will write either a TV pilot or a feature film script. During the writing process, each bursary recipient will be encouraged and guided by the Neal Street Productions development team who will provide one-to-one support to develop their screenplay with confidence. Each applicant will submit a treatment, first draft and re-write within the writing period and will be able to discuss and gain advice at each stage. Neal Street may work with the successful applicant/s to develop the screenplay further.
They will meet with film and theatre director and company director, Sam Mendes, along with TV and film producers and company directors, Pippa Harris and Nicolas Brown. These meetings will provide an opportunity to reflect on and discuss their work creatively, discuss goals and ideas, and gain career advice.
They will also be given access to industry networking opportunities with established writers and commissioners.
To apply please visit the Neal Street Productions website read the eligibility criteria and timeline and fill in the online application form plus upload a sample of your work which can be a completed original screenplay, a play, a TV pilot or a short story. The sample must be a minimum of 30 pages and maximum of 120 pages.
Good luck, they are looking forward to hearing from you!
Deadline: 9 October 2020
Source: BBC Writersroom