Applications now invited

BBC Comedy’s Felix Dexter Bursary scheme is returning for a third year, to give a leg-up to a black, Asian or other minority ethnic writer.

The bursary gives up-and-coming writers the chance to hone their skills while gaining experience on a range of BBC comedies across radio, TV and online, incluing panel shows, shorts, sitcoms and comedy entertainment shows. 

Last year’s participants were  Nathan Roberts, who has since made his Edinburgh Fringe Festival debut and been signed up to a prestigious talent agency, and Phoebe Roy, who has continued to write for BBC shows, including Mock The Week.  

In the first year bursaries were awarded to Leah Chillery and Jonny Wright, who worked on everything from Mrs Brown’s Boys to Newsjack.  Both are still working on writing projects for the BBC, Channel 4 and the stage.

BBC commissioning editor  Sarah Asante said: ‘Every cohort so far has exceeded expectation so the sky is the limit for what can happen in the coming year.  

‘We have gathered so much industry support and buy-in; I feel like a proud aunt when industry movers and shakers let me know they’ve had a great meeting with or booked one of our bursary writers for a gig. 

‘ It’s a real testament to their hard work and the cachet we can offer them via the access they gain on this course.’

Applications for the six-month placement close on November 29. Further details are available from BBC Writersroom.

Published: 15 Nov 2019