Category: News

  • Financial and Mental Wellbeing Support

    How are you? No really, how are you doing? For the first time in ages, we actually mean that when we ask someone. We might not be able to see each other in person, but we’re spending more time on the phone and online connecting with each other: physical distancing, social solidarity.

    But that doesn’t mean this isn’t a difficult time. Our industry runs on freelancers, from actors to runners, all the way to producers and directors. We’re used to uncertainty in terms of our careers and finances, but this is another level. Overnight, the industry closed down, and many of us are struggling to know where we’re going to get our next paycheck.

    This is a tough time for the TCN too, but we’re trying our best to look at how we can support you through this time and be here for you when it’s all over.

    We wanted to pull together a few resources around the financial support that’s available, from the government and other sources, as well as some pointers on where to access mental health support. A bit of a caveat: this list isn’t exhaustive, we’re sure there’s other sources of support available, so feel free to comment with any useful links! And particularly with the government support, criteria are changing as they respond to the criticisms that they’re leaving people out, so even if you think you don’t qualify, read the guidance available carefully and keep updated.

    We hope this proves useful – in the meantime, stay safe and take care of yourselves. We’ll see you on the other side.

    Government Schemes:

    Self Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS)

    This is meant to help those who are self-employed. You can claim if you’re a self-employed individual or a member of a partnership and you:

    • have submitted your Self Assessment tax return for the tax year 2018 to 2019
    • traded in the tax year 2019 to 2020
    • are trading when you apply, or would be except for coronavirus
    • intend to continue to trade in the tax year 2020 to 2021
    • have lost trading profits due to coronavirus

    Read the info carefully for the details – HMRC will aim to contact you by mid May 2020 if you’re eligible for the scheme and invite you to claim using the GOV.UK online service. You could get up to 80% of your monthly income for 3 months, up to £2500 per month. Grants will not be paid until June 2020. You can apply for Universal Credit while you wait.

    There has been criticism that this scheme doesn’t cover directors of limited companies or people who have recently gone self employed and didn’t file a 2018/19 tax return. There could be changes to this scheme to address these issues. Keep up to date on the HMRC link below:

    https://www.gov.uk/guidance/claim-a-grant-through-the-coronavirus-covid-19-self-employment-income-support-scheme

    Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

    This scheme is for people on PAYE contracts. It should cover freelancers who move from job to job on short term PAYE contracts as well –  there have been recent changes to the scheme to try and capture more of these workers. It’s still not perfect, but if you’d already been let go from a PAYE contact, it is worth contacting your last employer to see if they’d be willing to rehire you and furlough you, so you qualify for the scheme. This is up to them, it’s not a government requirement.

    The scheme is administered by employers and they will decide who they offer furloughing to. Your employer will let you know if you’re going to be covered by the scheme. The government are offering up to 80% of your salary, with a cap of £2500 a month. It currently looks like this will be subject to tax and NI, just like the self-employed scheme. Some employers are topping up people’s salary but they are under no obligation to do so.

    Check if you might be covered under the scheme: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/check-if-you-could-be-covered-by-the-coronavirus-job-retention-scheme

    PACT’s most recent guidance to production companies: http://www.pact.co.uk/news-detail.html?id=covid-19-job-retention-scheme-q-a

    Scotland Additional Support

    If you live in Scotland, the government are offering additional support for small businesses and self employed people.

    Overview: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-52291998?fbclid=IwAR3UaIXMqO-lB7Xyd_WijM3BbOSU0DFQ8uiXr9h3MDcocUwlH7DJ2OC71G0

    Details and how to apply: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-individuals-and-businesses-in-scotland

    Universal Credit

    Check out the information below to see if you might be eligible for universal credit and what you need to do to apply.

    https://www.gov.uk/universal-credit/how-to-claim

    https://www.understandinguniversalcredit.gov.uk/employment-and-benefits-support/making-a-new-claim/

    Charities and Industry Support

    The Film and TV Covid-19 Emergency Relief Fund

    The Film and TV COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund has been created in partnership with the BFI. We’re able to provide one-off grants from £500 to £2,500 to active workers in film, TV and cinema facing significant financial hardship as a result of the Covid-19 crisis.

    There’s not a lot of time left to apply for this! Applications will close: 6pm Wednesday 22nd April 2020

    https://filmtvcharity.org.uk/covid-19-help-advice/covid-19-relief-fund/

    Arts Council Covid 19 Funds

    The Arts Council have announced funds for individuals, non NPO organisations and funding for NPOs. Read their guidance here and apply before 30 April (if you don’t have a Grantium profile you will need to set one up by 27 April to apply).

    Grants of up to £2500 are available for individuals and up to £35,000 for non NPO organisations.

    https://www.artscouncil.org.uk/covid19

    Audio and Radio Emergency Fund

    Set up by the Radio Academy, AudioUK, the BBC, Audible and Reelworld, the scheme will give grants of up to £1,000 to individuals who need extra support during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as those in hardship who are receiving no government assistance; people who need help with radio or audio development projects, or those who need new equipment or software.

    The fund will be open for applications from Monday 20 April.

    https://www.radioacademy.org/audio-radio-emergency-fund/

    Mental Health Support

    These circumstances can take a toll on our mental health. The uncertainty and anxiety about what happens next are universal. There are ways we can all support each other, especially if you’re isolating alone. Make sure you take time to talk to your friends and family on the phone, do some exercise if you can. Don’t feel under undue pressure to be creative, bake banana bread or learn a new language during lockdown, for some people that will help, but for other’s it’s just an added pressure.

    Here’s a couple of useful links to help you with your mental wellbeing from the Film and TV Charity. They have some oneline resrouces, but also, their 24 support line is still running and you can pick up the phone at any time to speak to someone or use their Live Chat option.

    Mental Wellbeing Support: https://filmtvcharity.org.uk/covid-19-help-advice/mental-wellbeing/

    Film and TV Charity 24 Hour Support Line: https://filmtvcharity.org.uk/we-can-help/support-line/

    Phone Line: 0800 054 0000.

     

  • Newcastle MonologueSlam Update

    We are sad to announce that this year’s planned Newcastle MonologueSlam on 05 June 2020 at Northern Stage has been cancelled.

    We feel that to push ahead with the event at this time would be irresponsible.

    This means the auditions and Masterclass have also been cancelled.

    We’re going to put a pause on all MonologueSlam events, until we’re a bit clearer about how we might be able to move forward. After all, MonologueSlam is all about bringing people together, so for the present, we’re going to need to find a safer way to do that!

    We appreciate many of you will be disappointed (the auditions were full already), but I hope you understand that we have to put people’s safety first.

    Keep in touch with us on social media and our mailing list for more updates as things develop.

    Big love from all at team TriForce.

  • TriForce Creative Network Covid-19 Update

    Hi all,

    There’s so much happening right now, and we know that many of those communities we represent are going to be hit the hardest by all of this. First and foremost, we’re sending warmth to all of you.

    Like everybody, we’ve having to alter our plans for this year’s upcoming programme of work.

    We are a small organisation with no core funding but we’ll try our best to maintain through this period and beyond, as we understand that many who can work still very much need to and once the dust settles, voices will need to be heard more than ever.

    Things may change rapidly but whilst we can, we will.

    MonologueSlam UK

    All MonologueSlam events are currently on hold. If you have booked an audition for our Newcastle MonologueSlam, we and Northern Stage have taken the decision to postpone the auditions on 3rd and 4th April. As soon as we have a new date for the auditions, we will contact everyone who booked and invite them to rebook.

    Currently the show is still planned for 5th June, but this a fast-moving situation and this may change.

    WriterSlam UK

    We and Audible have taken the decision to postpone the WriterSlam Finalists Workshop and the WriterSlam Final event which were planned for early May. We are hoping to move these events to early Autumn, depending on how the situation unfolds.

    Rather than close submissions, (we think we could all do with a little something to occupy our spirits during this time…) we’ve decided to extend the submissions window for this opportunity. We were due to close submissions on 20 March, but the submissions will now remain open until a few weeks before the final. There is no need to resubmit if you have already submitted.

    TriForce Short Film Festival

    This year the TriForce Short Film Festival is planned for 28th November. We are working toward this event date and plan to open submissions as usual in April.

    For more information please go to https://www.tfsff.com

    Dandi Services

    We are still getting people work and working to support the production companies and broadcasters that we work with during this difficult time. While production may have slowed down, do get in touch if you are working on development projects and I’m sure we can help with finding diverse, creative talent for you to work with – there’s lots of people who are happy to work from home!

    If you’re crew or creative talent looking for work, create a free profile on the TCN Talent Pool. While there may be fewer jobs at present, as soon as production ramps up again we will be looking for lots of roles. https://thetcn.com/candidates/

    This a fast-moving situation and plans may well change. We will keep you posted through our mailing list and social media as and when we know things. To make sure you remain informed, please sign up to our mailing list below:

    Mailing List: https://us3.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=ec1692306ae5525449ed0309b&id=323793f2d4

    Twitter: @TriForceEvents, @TriForceFest and @MonologueSlamUK

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TriForceCreativeNetwork/

    Instagram: thetcn

    For now, look after yourselves, one another, and mentally and physically, stay safe.

    Big Love

    Minnie, Fraser and the TriForce Team.

     

  • A new spin on WriterSlam with Audible!

    Calling all writers! Win a paid development commission with Audible!

    Following the success of WriterSlam with Amazon Studios, we’re partnering with their sister company, Audible, to find new and exciting scripted projects that are perfectly suited for audio. With over 400,000 audiobooks, Audible Original dramas, podcasts and short stories, Audible are constantly on the hunt for new writing talent.

    We’re looking for new voices who come from all backgrounds. We champion diversity of experience – if you include everyone, you don’t need to exclude anyone.

    Through the WriterSlam, Audible is looking to provide fresh, diverse talent an opportunity to share and develop their untold stories in the form of audio drama with help from industry experts. We’re looking for ambitious and transformational stories that celebrate the medium of audio and spotlight themes of diversity and inclusion. We’re open to all genres with a particular love of Crime and Thriller, Fantasy and mythology (especially those tales inspired by non-Western traditions), SciFi, smart Horror, RomComs, dramatizations of true stories, and History that sheds light on the present. Beyond a great story we look for global appeal, series with the potential to return for multiple seasons, and worlds and characters that will inspire fandoms.

    The winning writer will be selected by Audible’s panel of judges. The winner will receive a paid development commission and will work with Audible’s commissioning editors and casting team to develop a treatment and a one hour pilot episode. A successful pilot may even go on to be commissioned for a full series!

    ‘We’re so excited to be working with the Triforce Creative Network on WriterSlam.We know there’s so much fantastic writing talent out there, and we’re looking forward to celebrating original, emerging storytellers!’ Rachel Naughton, Audible.

    The selected finalists will have extracts of their work performed at a showcase event in London on Thurs 14 May 2020, when the winner will be selected by a panel of judges. The event will be attended by industry guests and a limited number of tickets will be available to the public.

    WriterSlam is open to everyone – you do not have to have an agent or have written anything before.

    Make sure you have a listen to some series on Audible before you submit – you can adapt a script initially conceived for screen or stage or write an original one, but please think carefully about it being an AUDIO script – it is a bit different to it being for TV! Think about ways in which you can experiment with ambitious ideas that might be less achievable on screen.

    Some tips for writing audio drama:

    • The only limit is the listener’s imagination.
    • Your audience can’t see! Be their eyes!
    • Is your dialogue flowing while also providing necessary information?
    • Aim for a variety of characters, voices, locations, and sounds.
    • Don’t overpopulate scenes.
    • Embrace silence as well as sound.
    • Provide concise stage directions, but speech is the most important tool in telling the story.
    • Use subtle signposts for changes in scene, location, and time.
    • Keep things simple.
    • Keep up the pace and hold onto your audience’s interest!
    • There are always exceptions to the rules—be creative!

    You can sign up for a 30 day free trial at https://www.audible.co.uk/

    Submissions are open from Monday 10 February – 11.59pm on Sunday 22 March 2020. For more information on how to submit, go the WriterSlam page.

  • Try out as a writer for “Have I Got News For You” with Hat Trick Productions

    We’ve joined forces with Hat Trick Productions to help them find fresh new talent for their writing pool on the legendary ‘Have I Got News For You’.

    Maybe you’re a stand up, sitcom writer or you’ve written comedy or comedy gags for radio, podcasts, television or online … Have a look for more details below on what they’re looking for and how to apply.

    Call out for writers with funny bones…

    Hat Trick are looking for new writers to try out for Have I Got News For You. We’re looking for people who are great at coming up with gags and one liners, and who are familiar with the style of the show. Writing for HIGNFY is a unique experience, but it would be great if you had some previous experience as a comedy writer, whether that’s as a stand up, a sitcom writer or perhaps writing comedy or comedy gags for radio, podcasts, TV or online.

    Hat Trick will meet with a shortlist of 10 writers for a workshop day in London, with up to 4-5 writers then going forward to ‘try out’ as gag writers on the next series of HIGNFY, which will be filming during April and May 2020. Each writer will attend one or two days during the run, to join a small writing team and work on the show. Writers who get to this stage will be paid a standard day rate fee.

    Who are Hat Trick?

    Hat Trick is one of the largest independent production companies in the media production industry.  Their hits are many and varied and include Father Ted, Whose Line Is it Anyway, Outnumbered, Episodes, Room 101, Dinner Date, Derry Girls and Have I Got News For You.

    Recognising the diversity of audience and the changing landscape of platforms and content providers, they want Hat Trick employees to reflect those audiences and create an environment that truly champions new voices.

    What’s the process?

    1. Apply through the TCN website

    Applications will be open from 03 February 2020 to 11.59pm on 15 February 2020.

    We’d like you to fill out a short application form, including a short paragraph on why you’d like to write for HIGNFY and upload your CV.

    We’ll also be asking you to submit some gags for the “In the news this week…” opening VT section, and for the “And I leave you with news…” still photos at the end of the show. You will probably already be familiar with these sections but here is a link to the latest compilation show with some good examples: HIGNFY Compilation

    On this compilation, the “In the news this week” section can be viewed from 0:21 to 1:10, and the “And I leave you with news…” section can be viewed from 27:13 to the end.

    Go to Stills and VTs to see a selection of pictures and short videos – this is typical of the kind of material you would have to work with on the show. We’d like you to submit 5 gags based on these – you can choose which you use – and add them to your application.

    1. Training Day at Hat Trick

    Up to 10 shortlisted candidates will be chosen by Hat Trick (in collaboration with the TCN) to attend a training day on Wed 26 February 2020 at the Hat Trick offices in Camden.

    The aim of this day is to give you and Hat Trick a chance to get to know each other as well as familiarise you with the HIGNFY writing process.

    1. Try Outs

    Following the training day, up to 4-5 writers will be invited to attend Try Out writing days during April and May when the series is on air, for which they will be paid a day rate.

    1. Next Steps

    Hat Trick are hoping to find some writers who can join the writing team for subsequent series, so those who do well during the ‘try outs’ may well be invited back in the future.

    Who can apply?

    Anyone can apply – although it would help if you have some comedy writing experience, perhaps as a stand up, a sitcom writer or perhaps writing comedy or comedy gags for radio, podcasts, TV or online.

    APPLY HERE

     

  • Stars celebrate Triforce Short Film Festival at BFI Southbank

    – Gurinder Chadha, O. T. Fagbenle, Elarica Johnson and Chizzy Akudolu among the guests at the annual short film festival –

    London, Sunday 01 December 2019:  Stars from film and TV gathered last night to celebrate the TriForce Short Film Festival (TFSFF), which recognises and supports diverse talent and champions inclusivity.  

     Film and TV director Gurinder Chadha (Beecham House, Bend It Like Beckham, Blinded by the Light) was joined by O.T. Fagbenle (The Handmaid’s Tale), former Strictly Come Dancing star Chizzy Akudolu (Holby City), Kellie Shirley (In The Long Run, EastEnders) Amanda Mealing (Casualty), Fola Evans-Akingbola (Siren, Black Mirror) and Elarica Johnson (A Discovery of Witches). The Awards were hosted by TriForce Creative Network Founders Jimmy Akingbola (In The Long Run, Cheat, Arrow), Fraser Ayres (Coronation Street) and TCN COO Minnie Ayres.

     The Awards were created by the TriForce Creative Network, which aims to readdress the balance of diverse professionals on and off screen in the film and TV industries, as a platform for new and emerging filmmakers to be introduced into the film and TV industry through showcasing their short films. The Festival provides a vital opportunity for underrepresented talent, helping them to access opportunities to further their careers. This year TFSFF showcased the diverse range of filmmaking talent with a high number of BAME and female producers, directors, cast and crew across all the shortlisted films. Building on last year’s gender balanced selections, over 60% of the 16 shortlisted films screened are directed by women, with half of the films having been made by BAME filmmakers.

    The star-studded event held at BFI Southbank revealed the winners, which were judged by an esteemed panel including Idris Elba and Gurinder Chadha, at an evening Gala and Awards ceremony.

    Winning the Best of the Fest Award and the award for Best Non-Scripted short film was Waves by Jessie Ayles. The short film was recognised for its beautiful cinematography alongside the shocking first-person account of three young girls growing up in one of South Africa’s most violent communities.

    The Audience Choice Award, voted by the audience on the night, went to Grandma’s 80th Surprise directed by actor Fola Evans-Akingbola, who is normally seen in front of camera in sci-fi drama Sirens.  The short film told the story of a newly in love respectful young man who is forced to confront his family’s rigid traditions as he seeks the approval of the family matriarch, his formidable 80-year-old Grandmother.

    Judge Idris Elba, whose credits include Luther, Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom and Marvel’s Avengers franchise, said; “It’s an honour to be part of the TriForce Short Film Festival judging panel. There is a crucial need in the UK film and TV industry to include voices from every walk of life to ensure our community is one of inclusivity, which is why this festival is so important.”

    Minnie Ayres, COO of TriForce Creative Network, said: It’s been an exciting year with the move to BFI Southbank helping us offer a bigger day time programme to support emerging filmmakers. Our judging panel agreed this year’s winning films were hugely compelling and original stories. It’s been an honour to have such a high-profile judging panel, and we can’t wait to get started on next year’s festival!”

    Ahead of the evening gala, TFSFF welcomed the public for a day of filmmaking workshops, where aspiring filmmakers had the opportunity to watch the shortlisted films, be inspired by Q&As with filmmakers and industry professionals, and take part in practical filmmaking workshops.

    TFSFF boasts a wealth of high profile patrons which include; writer, director and actor Kathy Burke, The Walking Dead star David Morrissey, Broadchurch’s Marianne Jean Baptiste, actor David Oyelowo (Selma), actress Kacey Ainsworth, (Grantchester), producer Hilary Bevan Jones (The Escape Artist), Oscar-winning director Kevin Macdonald (The Last King of Scotland), actor, writer and director Noel Clarke (Bulletproof), Nicholas Pinnock (Marcella), Zawe Ashton (Wanderlust) and award-winning playwright Roy Williams OBE.

    — ENDS —

    For further information please contact:

     Charlie Wainwright, Premier

    [email protected]

    0207 292 7372

    NOTES TO EDITORS:

     About TriForce Creative Network

    TriForce Creative Network was built on a strong ethos of inclusion and access, opening doors to the industry to people from all walks of life and providing a trusted and viable avenue for the industry to discover diverse talent. We provide opportunities for actors, writers, directors, producers and crew through the following initiatives:

    • MonologueSlam UK– supported by Spotlight, Equity and Channel 4, MonologueSlam UK is a renowned nationwide showcase for actors. For more info go to com

     

    • WriterSlam UK – supported by Channel 4, ITV, Sky and BBC, as well as production companies Hat Trick, Tiger Aspect and TriForce Productions, WriterSlam provides a platform for writers looking to break into TV. Prizes include paid development commissions and mentoring with top TV executives.

     

    • The TCN Talent Pool– a free service for those looking to work in TV and film behind the scenes. The Talent Pool works with Dandi (the Diversity and Inclusion Support Service) connecting crew and creative talent with production companies across the UK.

     

    • TriForce Productions– the production company was set up to create TV, film and online content that embodies our core ethos of inclusion and access. We delivered our first broadcast commission, Sorry, I Didn’t Know, a comedy panel show with a twist for ITV2 in 2016, with more projects in the pipeline.

    For more info on TriForce Creative Network and its initiatives, go to https://thetcn.com

    About The TriForce Short Film Festival (TFSFF)

    TFSFF was established to showcase talent in contemporary film-making, helping emerging film-makers to develop skills and access opportunities to further their careers.

    The festival has a strong focus on both diverse talent and career development, with all prizes supported by an industry partner who offers a career development prize to the winners, as well as a cash prize for their next project.  The TFSFF takes place at BAFTA, presenting a packed day of seminars tackling the key issues of the industry and offering invaluable advice from industry professionals, alongside a bustling expo and screenings of the shortlisted films. Concluding with a red-carpet gala evening attended by stars of stage and screen, the TFSFF is the place to see untapped and diverse talent, showcasing innovative story-telling and visually stunning short films.

    The 16 shortlisted films chosen by a panel of renowned industry experts including Idris Elba and Gurinda Chadha,  Multi Story’s Head of Documentaries, Mark Ruben, talent agent Lola Williams, Metro’s Chief Film Critic Larushka Ivan-Zadeh, Ten10 Films producer and MD Tendeka Matatu, Head of BFI Network, Jessica Loveland and executive producer Professor Stefan Allesch-Taylor CBE. The Non-Scripted Winner won £500 and a meeting with Mark Rubens at Multi Story as part of their prize.  The ‘Best of the Fest’ winner won £1000, a Panasonic DC-GH5MEB-K camera worth £1500 and a meeting with Allesch-Taylor to pitch for financing for their next project, as part of his continued relationship with the Festival. There were two further prizes of a £750 bursary supported by John Byrne and Lola Williams for the most promising director, as well as an Audience Choice Award of £250 chosen by the audience at the gala. All 16 shortlisted filmmakers won a year’s Raindance membership.

    Each year, TFSFF partners each category screening of the 16 shortlisted films across the day with seminars and workshops led by leading industry professionals focused on current issues within the TV and film industry and career development. This year’s partners include Professor Stefan Allesch-Taylor CBE, BFI Network, Multi Story, Raindance, Mama Youth Project, Variety, Into Film, National Film and Television School, Creative England, Film London, The Film Festival Doctor John Byrne and Lola Williams, The Sea Containers and Panasonic.

     

     

  • Hat Trick Looking for Emerging Producers!

    We’ve joined forces with Hat Trick Productions to help them reach out to burgeoning comedy producers, with a 12 month contract on offer as well as the opportunity for a wider pool of producers to build a strong freelance relationship with the company.

    If you’re an aspiring comedy producer and would like to work for one of the biggest independent comedy production companies in the UK, have a look for more details below on what they’re looking for and how to apply.

    A Call Out for Emerging Scripted Comedy Producers

    Hat Trick’s scripted department makes a wide range of programmes, from half hour sit com, to hidden camera prank shows, sketch shows, and longer form comedy and dramas.

    They want to reach out to a broader range of emerging comedy producers, who are keen to further their career in scripted comedy.

    They’ll be meeting with a shortlist of around 10 producers, who will get the chance to meet with the team at Hat Trick, ask them about what sort of projects they’re interested in as well as pitch an original project of their own to Hat Trick MD Jimmy Mulville.

    Hat Trick will offer one of the shortlisted producers a 12 month contract as a Junior Producer at the Hat Trick offices in Camden. (You can find more info on the job role below!)

    They also want to keep in touch with all the shortlisted producers, with the aim that they will potentially work with them in the future on a freelance basis.

    Who are Hat Trick?

    Hat Trick is one of the largest ‘true’ independent Production Companies left in the Media Production industry.  Their hits are many and varied and include Father Ted, Whose Line Is it Anyway, Outnumbered, Episodes, Room 101, Dinner Date, Derry Girls and Have I Got News For You.

    In the last year Hat Trick Productions has made Series 2 of Derry Girls for Channel 4 and Series 2 of Flack for UKTV. Over the next 12 months, together with their returning series, they have a new 3-part drama commissioned, together with a new 6-part comedy drama written by Andy Hamilton and Guy Jenkin called Kate and Kojo, for ITV.

    Hat Trick has a Group structure which includes; a new scripted venture with Jed Mercurio (HTM) which will go into production with several new series in 2020; two factual production companies Plum Pictures and Emporium Productions; and a music entertainment producer Livewire Pictures.

    Recognising the diversity of audience and the changing landscape of platforms and content providers, they want Hat Trick employees to reflect those audiences and create an environment that truly champions new voices.

    What’s the process?

    1. Apply through the TCN website

    Applications will be open from 16 October to 05 November 2019.

    We’d like you to fill out a short application form, that will ask why you’d like to apply for the role, and upload your CV. Click on the button at the bottom of this post to access the form.

    Have a read of the sort of experience we’re looking for below under Who Can Apply?

    1. Workshop Day at Hat Trick

    Up to 10 shortlisted candidates will be chosen by Hat Trick (in collaboration with the TCN) to attend a workshop day (date TBC) at the Hat Trick offices in Camden. The shortlisted candidates will be asked to come up with an idea for a show that they’d like to pitch on the day.

    They’ll be several different elements to the day, including a chance to ask the Hat Trick team how they like to work and what sort of projects they’re interested in, as well as a pitching session where you get to pitch your original idea.

    The aim of this day is to give you and Hat Trick a chance to get to know each other and start to build an ongoing professional relationship.

    1. Interviews and Offer

    Following the workshop day, some candidates will be selected by Hat Trick to interview for the Junior Producer role. This will be arranged directly with you for a convenient time. One candidate will be offered the role of Junior Producer with a 12-month contract, to start as soon as possible! The role will be located at the Hat Trick offices in Camden, and the salary will vary depending on experience.

    1. Career Development

    Following the process, we want to support all the shortlisted comedy producers to keep in touch with TCN and Hat Trick and create an open door for you to pitch ideas, as well as being added to the TCN Talent Pool who will look for other comedy producer roles for all the candidates.

    Who can apply?

    Please do read the below criteria and ONLY apply if it describes your background; if you’re inexperienced we know how tempting it is to whack in an application on the off chance but we’ll genuinely only shortlist candidates who can demonstrate how they meet our requirements.

    • Demonstrated experience of working professionally in production – ideally some scripted comedy credits but we’re also interested in those who have been involved with making comedy entertainment content or comedy for other platforms e.g. online and radio or theatre / live entertainment (Comedy / Drama)
    • Some understanding of the mechanics of script editing but importantly with an eye for original ideas and how writers / stories may be appropriate for different audiences and platforms.
    • Some technical skills would be useful not essential – knowledge of camera and editing practice (ideally hands on experience of producing content)
    • Knowledge of the content market, different broadcasters, platforms and programme styles
    • Good contacts and relationships across the comedy world with writers and talent
    • Confidence and tenacity to pursue talent, overcome obstacles, and pitch ideas to senior colleagues
    • Able to work with emerging talent – quick at building rapport and confidence with writers and performing talent
    • An ambitious outlook but with an ability to support others in the team
    • Flexibility to work (and network) in evenings and weekends

    What will the role involve?

    This is a new role in the Hat Trick Scripted department. They’re looking for an individual who, having already had relevant experience is ambitious to build their career as a Producer of programming in the comedy field.

    This role will be to support existing development and commissioned projects within the team. Initially this will include script editing, development producer support on delegated projects and working with the team on commissioner initiatives. Through the year this will probably extend to hands on responsibilities in production.

    Alongside the above the individual will also have a focused output for their own initiatives and an entrepreneurial spirit. They will be responsible for identifying emerging talent on the circuit (writers and performers) and crucially assessing if and where there could be a fit with Hat Trick activities.

    During the 12-month period we would like to see this role doing the following:

    • Submitting an agreed project into BBC3 and C4/E4
    • Producer a pilot or funded development for a broadcaster

    Submissions are open from Wed 16 October – Tuesday 05 November.

    APPLY NOW

  • Our Amazon WriterSlam Winners

    Congratulations to our #WriterSlam finalist writers who had their work showcased to an industry audience at a fantastic event at The Curtain Hotel on Friday night! Omari McCarthy and Celia Morgan were selected by Amazon as the winners, they will both work with Lydia Hampson, Head of Scripted UK for Amazon Studios over 3-6 months to develop their idea into a full episode script, with the potential for further development into a series for Amazon Prime Video.

    Congrats also to finalists Grace Link, Mikey Jackson and Rashida Seriki – there was a lot of interest from literary agents and production companies, so we’re sure we’ll be seeing all five of these writers’ work on our TV screens very soon!

    Thanks also to the amazing team at Amazon – Georgia Brown, Lydia Hampson and Carlo Frem, as well our fantastic team including Ben Cogan (Casting Director), Fraser Ayres (Director and Script Editor), Minnie Ayres (Producer) and Michael Jacob (Script Editor). The show was hosted by the amazing Chizzy Akudolu and boasted a fantastic cast including Ellen Thomas, Kellie Shirley, Ezra Elliott, Daniel Anthony, Ayoola Smart, Azuka Oforka and Ken Birk. Photos by Joana Saramago.

    Make sure you don’t miss out on our next WriterSlam opportunity and sign up to our mailing list here to be kept up to date: http://triforcepromotions.us3.list-manage2.com/subscribe?u=ec1692306ae5525449ed0309b&id=323793f2d4

  • Announcing Amazon WriterSlam Finalists!

    TRIFORCE CREATIVE NETWORK AND

    AMAZON STUDIOS ANNOUNCE WRITERSLAM FINALISTS

    17:00 Wed 21 August: Director of European Amazon Original Series for Amazon Studios Georgia Brown, announced the 5 finalists of the TriForce Creative Network WriterSlam programme in association with Amazon Studios during her keynote appearance at this year’s Edinburgh TV Festival.

    The 5 writers were selected following a nationwide call out for original ideas, with over 1000 entries from a hugely diverse range of writers, who were invited to submit a synopsis and 15 pages of script.

    The final script extracts will be performed for an audience of leading industry figures on Friday 06 September and an overall winner will be selected on the night who will receive a paid development commission from Amazon Studios. The winner will work with Lydia Hampson, Head of Scripted UK for Amazon Studios over 3-6 months to develop their idea into a full episode script, with the potential for further development into a series for Amazon Prime Video.

    Previous WriterSlam participants have enjoyed great success including paid development commissions with ITV, Tiger Aspect and BBC Radio 4 and mentoring placements with ITV, Tiger Aspect, Hat Trick and TriForce Productions. The writer behind new Irish drama Blood, Sophie Petzal, took part in Triforce’s very first writing competition at the start of her writing career.

    The selected writers and their projects are:

    Celia Morgan – Sandra’s Girls
    A family of women, who have no idea how to talk to each other, embark on a journey of family intervention therapy in order to uncover the cause of the youngest sister’s psychosis.

    Grace Link – Crack of Dawn
    When Dawn discovers her husband Tim’s gay lover her 22-year-long marriage and stable home-life crashes down around her…in the middle of a hot flush.

    Omari McCarthy – Once Upon A Time in Handsworth
    A Greek tragedy for the working class where misguided youths play the roles of indifferent gods. Set in the inner city of Handsworth, Birmingham, the series follows two teens caught between the dreams of childhood and the hard reality of adulthood.

    Mikey Jackson – Seven Magpies
    One woman. Two traumatic past events. A secret never to be told.

    Rashida Seriki – The Four
    Four young women form a mystical sisterhood as they hone their ancestral powers of witchcraft and use it to enforce their own idea of justice and slay social wrongs.

    Georgia Brown said “We were blown away by the standard of scripts we received and it was incredibly tough to narrow it down to just 5 writers. We’re very excited to see the extracts performed on 6th September and can’t wait to work with one of these amazing writers!.”

    Fraser Ayres (CEO, TriForce Creative Network), said “We’ve thoroughly enjoyed reading the many fantastic scripts that were submitted, and the final 5 writers reflect the diversity of the wide range of writers who entered. We look forward to bringing these 5 scripts to life and helping these writers move forward in their careers!”

    For more information, go to https://thetcn.com/writerslam/

    ENDS

    NOTES TO EDITORS:

    About TriForce Creative Network (TCN)

    TCN was founded in 2004 by actors Jimmy Akingbola and Fraser Ayres to help increase diversity in the entertainment industry. The company has gone from humble beginnings to becoming the leading networking organisation of the entertainment industry, based around a philosophy of inclusivity, not exclusivity.

    TCN is a unique company, creating opportunities for individuals and companies to develop and thrive within the industry. Its mission is to put talent in front of those with the power to move careers forward, launching careers and supporting talent through numerous events.

    The TriForce network now has over 30,000 members spanning all demographics and levels of the media business. It traverses race, class or position and provides a link to all in the network from the bottom to the top. TriForce’s network consists of casting directors such as Jeremy Zimmerman and Amy Hubbard, actors Sheridan Smith, Aml Ameen, Rafe Spall and Eammon Walker, musicians Jermaine Jackman, Goldie and Ed Sheeran, and theatre practitioners, executive producers and writers.

    Thetcn.com        Monologueslamuk.com                Tfsff.com

     For further information please contact:

     Minnie Ayres – COO, TriForce Creative Network

    [email protected]

  • Amazon Studios WriterSlam Shortlist!

    The WriterSlam Shortlist has now been announced!

    We are very excited to announce our shortlist for WriterSlam 2019. The shortlisted writers and their scripts are:

    Celia Morgan – Sandra’s Girls
    E. Amato – Majority Rules
    Edward Tew – Flat Earthers
    Grace Link – Crack of Dawn
    Grant Taylor – Shortcutz
    Hannah Robinson – Tesla Girls
    Ishan Ganjoor & Rajiv Karia – Slackney
    Jeffrey Aidoo – Saved
    Lauren Jackson – Take Us Seriously
    Mikey Jackson – Seven Magpies
    Nadene Ghouri – Imerina
    Omari McCarthy – Once Upon A Time In Handsworth
    Racha Sobratee – Being Aisha
    Rachel Main – Castaways
    Rashida Seriki – The Four
    Shay Elliot – The Place for Me
    Stephen George – Deliver or Dai
    Sunnie Sidhu – The Last Age
    Valeria Cutko – Wimbledon Common
    Victoria Ibitoye – The Triple W Society

    What Happens Now?

    This shortlist will be whittled down to 5 finalists by the TCN and Amazon Studios. We will then invite the 5 finalists to take part in a script workshop on Sat 24 August with renowned Exec Producer Michael Jacob. These 5 writers will be taught how to generate an industry standard pitch and synopsis, as well as receiving in-depth advice and expertise. Writers will also be developing their work with an eye to producing a full script by the end of the workshop.

    The 5 finalists will have their extracts performed at the WriterSlam showcase, on 06 September in London, in front of an industry audience alongside family and friends. 

    What is the prize?

    The winning writer will be selected by Amazon Studios. Following their win, they receive a paid development commission and will work with Lydia Hampson, Head of Scripted, UK for Amazon Studios over 3-6 months to develop their idea into a full episode script, with the potential for further development into a series.

  • WriterSlam Returns with Amazon Studios!

    Are you a writer looking to break into the TV industry?

    Building on the success of our MonologueSlam UK initiative for actors, WriterSlam UK is our programme to help TV production companies and broadcasters access new and established writers from diverse backgrounds.  These TV industry professionals then support the writers in their career development, providing tangible outcomes for participants.

    We’re looking for new voices for television, who come from all backgrounds. We champion diversity of experience – if you include everyone, you don’t need to exclude anyone.

    For this new WriterSlam, we’re proud to be partnering with Amazon Studios!

    Through the WriterSlam, Amazon Studios is looking to provide fresh, diverse talent an opportunity to share and develop their untold stories with help from industry experts. Our guidelines for submission are simple: we’re looking for stories that celebrate and spotlight themes of diversity and inclusion. Possible topics could explore the experiences of (but are not limited to) gender, LGBTQ+, ethnic, religious, or disabled communities. It can be any genre including drama, comedy, rom-com, thriller. We’re keen to see ideas which have the potential to become returning series, and reflect Amazon’s bold, contemporary approach. Thing big!

    The winning writer will be selected by Amazon Studios. Following their win, they receive a paid development commission and will work with Lydia Hampson Head of Scripted, Amazon Studios, over 3-6 months to develop their idea into a full episode script, with the potential for further development into a series.

    ‘I am so thrilled to be working the Triforce Network on this WriterSlam. There is an abundance of diverse talent in the UK, and it’s up to commissioning platforms like us to work harder in developing and nurturing those voices.’  Lydia Hampson, Head of Scripted, Amazon Studios.

    The 5 selected finalists will have extracts of their work performed at a showcase event in London on Fri 06 September, when the winner will be selected by Lydia Hampson of Amazon Studios. The event will be attended by industry guests and a limited number of tickets will be available to the public.

    WriterSlam is open to everyone – you do not have to have an agent or have written anything before.

    Submissions are open from Thurs 11 July – Wed 31 July. For more information on how to submit, go the WriterSlam page.

  • Idris Elba joins TFSFF Judging Panel!

    We’re so excited to announce our full judging panel for 2019, including Idris Elba and Gurinder Chadha! Check out our full press release below and you can see the full judges line up by clicking here.

    IDRIS ELBA AND GURINDER CHADHA JOIN TRIFORCE SHORT FILM FESTIVAL 2019 JUDGING PANEL

    Golden Globe and SAG winning actor, director, producer and musician, Idris Elba and award-winning writer, producer, director Gurinder Chadha, OBE has today been announced as judges for the 2019 TriForce Short Film Festival, which invites emerging filmmakers to showcase their short films.

    Established by the TriForce Creative Network, the TriForce Short Film Festival (TFSFF) supports inclusivity; focussing on recognising and championing a diverse range of filmmaking talent.  With continued racial and gender inequality, alongside people with disabilities and from the LGBT community still being under-represented in the UK film and TV industry, the Festival continues vital work to uncover emerging filmmakers from these underserved backgrounds.  16 shortlisted films will be showcased on the 30th November at BFI Southbank in front of key film and TV industry representatives.

    Idris Elba, whose credits include Luther, Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom and Marvel’s Avengers franchise, commented; “It’s an honour to be part of the TriForce Short Film Festival judging panel. There is a crucial need in the UK film and TV industry to include voices from every walk of life to ensure our community is one of inclusivity, which is why this festival is so important.  I look forward to viewing the submissions.”

     Gurinder Chadha, whose credits include the forthcoming Beecham House, Viceroy’s House and Bend It Like Beckham, said; I’m very pleased to be joining such a diverse judging panel. Triforce have a reputation for championing untold stories so I’m looking forward to watching some fantastic films.”

    TriForce Short Film Festival Director Minnie Ayres said; “We couldn’t be more thrilled to have Idris join us on this years’ judging panel.  He has been so supportive of the Festival and is an authoritative voice in the industry to drive change for equality.  He has a keen eye for talent and creative storytelling, and his experience is a much-valued asset to our brilliant panel, as well as being a huge draw to aspiring filmmakers.”

     On the judging panel Elba is joined by critically acclaimed industry experts including Multi Story’s Head of Documentaries, Mark Ruben, talent agent Lola Williams, Metro’s Chief Film Critic Larushka Ivan-Zadeh, Ten10 Films producer and MD Tendeka Matatu, Head of BFI Network, Jessica Loveland and executive producer Professor Stefan Allesch-Taylor CBE.  In addition, the ‘Best of the Fest’ winner will get to meet with Allesch-Taylor to pitch for financing for their next project as part of his continued relationship with the Festival.

    Now in its 8th year, TFSFF aims to build on encouraging figures from 2018 which saw 60% of the 16 shortlisted films screened directed by women, and 11 out of the 16 directors come from a BAME background.  The Festival not only showcases emerging filmmakers work, but also offers a unique chance to bring filmmakers together with influential figures in the UK film and TV industry, enabling participants a channel to further their careers. The winning filmmakers scoop a cash prize for their next project and support with career development opportunities.  The day-long festival also offers a programme of career focused seminars, practical workshops and an industry expo, offering invaluable advice from industry professionals.

    The three categories for this year’s in Festival competition are:

    • Microshorts– open to films under five minutes long, of any genre
    • General Scripted– open to scripted films between five and 20 minutes long
    • Non-Scripted– open to non-scripted films between five and 20 minutes long

    Since 2002, the Festival has built a strong reputation through supporting the selected filmmakers in their careers well beyond the festival itself. Previous winners include Jane Gull, who went on to direct the critically acclaimed and BIFA nominated film My Feral Heart, after her short film Sunny Boy scooped the Best of the Fest Award, and Christiana Ebohon-Green, who has gone on to direct two episodes of the BBC Four drama Soon Gone: A Windrush Chronicle and BBC One hit Call The Midwife, after her film Some Sweet Oblivious Antidote, which starred Sir Lenny Henry, also won the Best of the Fest Award.

    The Festival’s supporters and patrons include actors Kathy Burke (Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie, Harry Enfield and Chums), David Morrissey (Britannia, The Walking Dead), David Oyelowo (A United Kingdom, Selma), Noel Clarke (Bulletproof, Doctor Who), David Harewood (Supergirl, The Night Manager), Nicholas Pinnock (Marcella, Fortitude), Zawe Ashton (Wanderlust, Fresh Meat), producer Hilary Bevan Jones (Deep State, State of Play), Oscar-winning director Kevin Macdonald (The Last King of Scotland, State of Play) and award winning writer and playwright Roy Williams OBE (Soon Gone: A Windrush Chronicle, Offside, Fast Girls).

    The TriForce Short Film Festival will take place at BFI Southbank on Saturday 30th November, where the shortlisted films will be shown and the overall Festival winner will be revealed. Tickets will go on sale later in the year.

     Submissions are now open at: http://tfsff.com/submissions, where applicants can also view terms and conditions. Submissions are open until 14 September 2019.

     — ENDS —


    For further information please contact:

    Charlie Wainwright, Premier

    [email protected]/ 0207 292 7372