Our CBBC Drama Writers' retreat took place recently in the lovely surroundings of Riber Hall. It offered a group of writers, both with experience in and new to children's drama, the chance to develop ideas for an original CBBC drama series plus an opportunity to pitch their ideas to the Head of CBBC Drama Production, Helen Bullough. Marissa Lestrade explains what happened over the 3 days...
As writers, we spend so much of our time locked into a computer dreaming up imaginary stories, characters and conversations. It was a real treat therefore to spend three days developing ideas for an original series with the CBBC Drama development team, BBC Writersroom and seven other writers at Riber Hall in Derbyshire. Prior to arrival, we were asked to send in two ideas for a new CBBC drama - one real world and one high concept/fantasy, so we got there fully prepped and ready. After settling in, we each pitched our ideas to the room. Instead of it being a nerve-wracking experience, it was incredibly relaxed and supportive. There’s nothing like having a group of writers and programme-makers hear and contribute to your idea!
Over the next few days we had one-to-one sessions with Anna Davies, Head of CBBC Drama, and Laura Conway, Development Producer, to further develop and discuss our ideas. We had a lot of individual writing time and two guest speaker sessions, all of which added to the learning and excitement of creating an original show. From both Connal Orton and Emma Reeves, I gained insights into series development, the ‘returnability’ of a show, and how recreating formats within a drama can keep it fresh and relevant.
As well as the writing, there were country walks, lots of laughter around the dinner table and good food. Evenings were spent viewing current CBBC dramas, and chatting into the night. Some of the other writers are the most experienced in the business so hearing them talk about their own writing practice and how to handle pressure was one of the most valuable aspects of the retreat.
On the third day Helen Bullough, Head of CBBC Production arrived and we delivered our final pitches to everyone. It was amazing to hear how far each idea had come over the few days. Being in an intense writing bubble with little access to Wi-Fi and surrounded by creatives, is a great way to focus the mind, drill down into an idea and come out the other side with an original drama series. It’s also a great way to make friends.
Overall, Anne Edyvean and the BBC Writersroom team have been incredibly supportive of my career. After spending seven years developing dramas in Ethiopia, Sierra Leone and Botswana, I wanted to focus on writing television here and they’ve helped me do exactly that. I’ve received representation from Josh Varney’s agency 42, I’m currently writing on The Dumping Ground, and will be commissioned to write an episode of Casualty later in the year. Fingers crossed for my original CBBC series idea! Whatever happens, I know that the retreat has given me confidence, honed my development skills and allowed me to form a new relationship with the CBBC channel - 3 days very well spent.
