Production company Red Planet Pictures is on the hunt for emerging writing talent who can create the next must-watch drama.
Writers are invited to submit a spec script and the prize winner will receive a script commission and development opportunities with ITV.
The competition, which first launched in 2007, is designed to find the next generation of writing talent and entrants are asked to “think big, think bold, think how they can make their ideas stand out in a competitive marketplace.”
Past finalists include Robert Thorogood who created the popular BBC One drama Death in Paradise which has recently been confirmed for an eighth series in 2019.
Writers must submit a full-length spec script (for TV, film, radio or theatre), a one/two page pitch for an original TV series or serial for ITV, and a CV highlighting any previous writing credits – although writing credits are not essential to enter.
Submissions will then be judged by a panel of industry experts including Red Planet Pictures CEO Tony Jordan (Life on Mars, Hustle), ITV’s head of drama Polly Hill, actor Adrian Lester (Hustle, Riviera) and the BBC’s Creative Director of New Writing Kate Rowland.
Up to ten writers will then be invited to attend a pitching masterclass with Red Planet Pictures and ITV, and asked to produce the first ten pages of their original idea. The strongest writers will receive development input and up to four will be invited to a final interview, when the winner will be chosen.
To be eligible for this competition, writers must be based in the UK, and their original idea must not be in development with another broadcaster or production company.
The deadline for entries is 9am on the 12th February 2018 with the winner to be announced in the summer.
For more information, visit the Red Planet Pictures website.
