Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland has announce the launch of Spotlight, aimed at discovering and developing fresh and exciting screenwriting talent in Ireland. Following on from the success of 2018’s New Writing Scheme, Screen Ireland have refined the format to further suit the needs of emerging talent.
The scheme is intended as an opportunity for new writers to develop a feature film screenplay, with guidance and mentorship from leading industry figures at the very beginning of their careers.
The successful applicants will be assigned a script editor, receive a development loan of up to €8,000 for an individual or up to €10,000 for teams of two or more individuals, and there will be an industry showcase at the end of the scheme, which will connect participants with industry contacts and develop opportunities for their career. In addition, the new writers will have access to an industry mentor over several months as part of a structured mentoring programme offered through Screen Skills Ireland.
Supporting new and innovative talent through rigorous development is a cornerstone of Screen Ireland. The success of last year’s New Writing Scheme made for a natural evolution into Spotlight. We look forward to collaborating with Screen Skills on this initiative.
Eimear Markey, Development Executive – Screen Ireland
Screen Skills Ireland
Gareth Lee, Manager – Screen Skills Irelandare delighted to support the new Spotlight initiative and provide the new writers with a mentor who will act as an additional sounding board as well as an important industry contact as they start out on their careers.
Spotlight opens for applications on 1st October and the deadline for submissions will be Friday, 1st November.
Screen Ireland is committed to developing projects which are inclusive and representative of modern Ireland. As such, the organisation strongly encourages applications from those with diverse voices and underrepresented backgrounds.
You can find more information on Spotlight and how to apply here.