[press release from ABC TV}
ABC TV and Film Victoria last night announced a new comedy initiative, STITCH, designed to stimulate Victoria’s production of successful narrative comedies.
Announced at the National Screenwriters Conference, in South Australia, STITCH is calling for diverse ideas and concepts from comedy writers, directors, producers and performers.
The initiative presents an opportunity for practitioners to put forward innovative and imaginative ideas for new comedy series with the hope that they may join the ranks of hit ABC TV series Summer Heights High, The Hollowmen, Very Small Business and Review with Myles Barlow.
Six teams will be selected to participate in an intensive three day development workshop where they can explore and develop original concepts and ideas.
Amanda Duthie, Head of ABC TV Arts, Entertainment & Comedy said “Australian comedy has a track record of delighting diverse audiences and this is a fabulous chance for comedy voices to get their work shown on Wednesday evenings ABC1 – the same slot where we saw the debut of Chris Lilley and the Chaser Team wage war on everything.”
Sandra Sdraulig, Chief Executive Officer, Film Victoria said, “Partnering with a leading broadcaster like the ABC is very exciting, especially when we’re focusing on scriptwriting development opportunities. Special writing skills and expertise are required to create successful comedy shows. Through this partnership we hope to see more projects come to light that entertain and engage local and international audiences.”
Industry writers, directors, producers and performers are encouraged to go to www.film.vic.gov.au for further details. Applications close on March 30, 2009.