BBC Two commissions Dara and Ed's Asian Adventure

Following the success of Dara And Ed’s Great Big Adventure, which broadcast on BBC Two last summer, long-term friends, comedians Dara O Briain and Ed Byrne pack their cases once more as they embark on an expedition of a lifetime, crossing 3,500 miles from the bright lights of modern day Malaysiato the jungles of Myanmar, exploring the rich history of the region and its links with Europe and the UK.

Dara and Ed will begin their journey in the glittering metropolis of Kuala Lumpur, where they’ll explore the Malay sense of humour, have a go at lion dancing, and discover why Malaysia is one of the most diverse countries in the world. From there, they will travel north through the Malaysian peninsula, meeting indigenous tribes and taking part in a chicken beauty pageant, before crossing into Thailand where they will discover how the worst excesses of tourism are affecting the wildlife of Phuket. They will then head north to visit a Buddhist monastery which is home to one of the world’s toughest detoxes.

Their adventure continues in Myanmar, where Dara and Ed will explore this little-known country which has only recently opened up to tourism, ending their journey in the legendary city of Mandalay.

Clare Sillery BBC Commissioning Editor, Documentaries, says: “I can't imagine better travelling companions to join on the Road to Mandalay. Dara and Ed share wit and intelligence in abundance and also a genuine friendship that should make this a really surprising and enjoyable journey.”

Managing Director of Boundless, Hannah Wyatt comments on the commission: “It’s fantastic to be working with the hugely talented Dara and Ed once again. They have a uniquely innovative take on their travels and I'm looking forward to seeing their experiences and learnings as they journey across such a diverse range of countries”

Dermot Horan, Director of Production and Acquisitions, RTE says: “We loved Dara and Ed’s American trip which proved a big hit with Irish viewers, and believe their new Asian adventure will offer them an even bigger opportunity to demonstrate their talents.”

Production has commenced.

Dara and Ed’s Asian Adventure is a Boundless production for BBC Two in association with RTE. It will be Executive Produced by Fiona Caldwell. The Series Producer/Director is Pamela Gordon. The Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Clare Sillery.

Lesley Land - 020 7861 8090 / lesley.land@fremantlemedia.com