BBC Sounds: Margins to Mainstream with Michael Sheen
In early 2022, we created a 10-part podcast series for BBC Sounds hosted by Michael Sheen introducing new writers from under-represented backgrounds. Organised a special theatre performance where Michael and a host of other actors performed the pieces to a live audience. And saw the series go Stateside.
Objectives
To create a platform for the work of writers from underrepresented backgrounds
Organise a celebratory live performance where actors performed the work of the writers to a live audience
- Create a special piece of content which BBC Radio Wales could use as their lead for St. David’s Day 2022.
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BBC Sounds episodes
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underrepresented voices platformed
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guests at live event at Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama
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podcast for BBC in America
Content from the Campaign
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A Writing Chance is a scheme seeking fresh perspectives and great stories from people whose voices have historically not been heard in publishing and the media. Our podcast turns the volume up on their voices.
- Michael Sheen came to us with a challenge. To create a podcast series around his brilliant A Writing Chance scheme.
- We came up with Margins to Mainstream with Michael Sheen and secured a commission from BBC Sounds to publish and promote the series.
- Our team interviewed the writers and their mentors- including writers such as the Red Riding Trilogy novelist David Peace, journalists Kevin Maguire, Brian Reade and many more- weaving a scripted narrative around the interviews.
- Recorded the scripts with host Michael Sheen in the BBC studios in Cardiff’s Central Square.
- Organised a full house event where actors including Michael performed live pieces which formed the climax of each episode.
- Worked with BBC to promote the episodes week on week and find an audience for the work.
- Sold the series to BBC America following interest to take the stories Stateside.
