BBC hunts for North East talent

The BBC has launched a second hunt for new comedy talent in the North East of England.

Jesting About 2: Funny Gets Serious will give performers, writers and filmmakers the opportunity to pitch comedy ideas, scripts and sketches to BBC commissioners.

The scheme – following a similar initiative last year – is inviting pilot sitcom sketches for BBC One, ideas for a weekly live comedy and entertainment series for BBC Three and talent for a half-hour pilot radio show.

Successful applicants will attend workshops and receive support from BBC executives to develop their ideas into pilots.

Peter Salmon, director of BBC North,said: ‘From Vic & Bob to Ross Noble to Sarah Millican, the North East knows how to make the UK laugh/ The BBC believes it is important to invest in new talent and Jesting About is a great way for new comedians to develop.’

BBC creative head of comedy Simon London added: ‘We are determined to discover new and authentic comedy voices across the UK and Jesting About is a fantastic opportunity to help us in our quest.’

The deadline is midday on November 28, and more information is available here.

Published: 3 Nov 2011