ABOUT
TELEVISION DRAMA
The popular and critical success of An t-Eilean has shown how a gripping Gaelic story set in a stunning island landscape can attract wide audiences and co-investment.
We are currently expanding our TV Drama development slate and are looking for ambitious new ideas from writers and producers.
What we are looking for
This is an exciting opportunity to develop a brand-new Gaelic TV drama that will punch above its weight creatively and critically.
We are looking for original ideas that will connect with a Gaelic audience. Something rooted and relatable that speaks to viewers’ lives and experiences.
At the same time for ideas to attract distributor interest and co-investment, ideas need to be able to appeal to an international audience.
Story ideas should be absolutely compelling – making dramatic use of the Gaelic world. Keep in mind our two USPs – our language and our landscape.
Genre
We are open to all popular genres that will excite, entertain and move viewers – both at home and abroad.
We would like Gaelic to be reflected in the here-and-now, and not in a nostalgic past. However, we are open to period settings – so long as there are realistic prospects for co-financing and/or the cast of characters and locations are limited.
We are also unlikely to look at horror, sci fi, myth or fantasy as part of this call-out.
Adaptations will be considered alongside original ideas – but the rights must be available.
Format
Our priorities are serials of 45-60 minute episodes. Returnability is not essential.
Language
This call out is for drama ideas predominantly told in the Gaelic language. However, depending on the level of co-investment, we will consider a proportion of other languages (including English) up to a maximum of 25%. The script must be originated in Gaelic.
Audience
We want to appeal to the broadest possible audience – both on linear and iPlayer. But please also keep one eye on a UK-wide and international viewership.
Ambition
Our watchwords are originality, vision and ambition. We are looking for a distinctive creative voice with a unique perspective on the world.
Talent
We want to work with the very best, creative talent from across Scotland. This call-out is open to established drama production companies with a proven track record in TV drama working with top-flight Gaelic creatives. Cultural and linguistic authenticity are key.
We are not looking for casting suggestions at this early stage. However, ideas should play to the strengths of the Gaelic acting pool.
Co-finance and tax credits
Although this call-out is for early-stage development we would like to see ideas or projects which have credible co-finance potential with funding partners such as other broadcasters, screen agencies and distributors. We also welcome proposals for high-end TV drama that would qualify for the UK AVEC tax credit.
Budget
In order to qualify for UK AVEC TV tax relief we are looking for projects pegged at £1m (minimum) per broadcast hour.
SUBMISSIONS
What to submit
This is not a call-out for full scripts. A simple treatment outlining the story, the main characters and the proposed approach is all that’s required at this stage – maximum 4 pages.
Please also include CVs for the key creative talent.
If the idea is an adaptation of a literary work, you will need to confirm that the rights are available.
Where to submit
bbcalbacommissioning@bbc.co.uk
When to submit
Please get your submission to us by 1700 on 25.04.25.
Next steps
We will aim to read all the ideas by 09.05.25. We may follow up with an invitation to writers and/or producers to discuss their projects with us.
By 30.05.25 we will make a decision on which projects we want to develop. We will feedback to all applicants as soon as is feasible after that date. Successful writers/production companies will receive an offer for paid development.
For more information
If you would like any further information on this development call-out, please get in touch with Bill Macleod bill.macleod@mgalba.com
