New contest for aspiring writers

One of America’s biggest broadcasters is turning to viewers to create its next sitcom hit.

The NBC network – home to The Office and Parks and Rec – has announced an ‘an unprecedented effort to discover fresh comedic voices’ through its competition targeting aspiring comedy writers.

Anyone can pitch an idea to the NBC Comedy Playground contest, which network executives will assess. The network will then choose up to ten finalists, who will receive funding to make a pilot presentation.

These will then be judged by an advisory panel of top comedy names, who will pick two winners, each of which will have their pilot broadcast on NBC, plus up to four additional episodes. Another winner will be decided by viewers’ vote.

NBC entertainment president Jennifer Salke saod: ‘We are taking a bold, alternative approach in what we hope will uncover original comedy minds who are looking for a way to get into the television business.’

The advisory panel includes Aziz Ansari, Sean Hayes, Mindy Kaling, Seth Meyers, Amy Poehler, and more. Salke added: ‘We love that an incredible A-list roster of producers, writers, and performers have jumped in to help us find that untapped talent.’

Entries open on May 1, but unfortunately for most Brits, the rules state ‘You must be legally authorized to live, work and participate in the contest in the United States.’

Hopefuls should submit two videos: one by way of introduction and to showcase previous work, the other a short verbal pitch of the new comedy. For details and to apply, visit http://www.nbccomedyplayground.com

Published: 9 Apr 2014