RTÉ launches innovative new competition to develop drama series for the web

RTÉ today launched StoryLand, an innovative project, inviting new and experienced programme makers to make drama series specifically for the web, aimed at the 19-25 year old audience.

Aspiring and experienced programme makers are invited to make pitches for a 6-part drama series to be webcast in March 2009. From the pitches received, a panel chaired by Irish scriptwriter and actor Mark O'Halloran (Adam & Paul, Garage, Prosperity) will commission 10 new pilot drama series to be webcast on www. rte.ie/storyland.

StoryLand is a unique project in which the viewer decides which series they would like to see more of. Each pilot first episode will be webcast on www. rte.ie/storyland.

The power is then in the viewers hands! The audience will vote on-line and decide which series should be re-commissioned for second and subsequent episodes.

"This is the first time that RTÉ Drama has commissioned series specifically for the web. This is a truly innovative project in which we're hoping to uncover some new talent for both behind and in front of the camera. The web as a platform gives aspiring programme makers greater creative freedom to realise their vision and the StoryLand project will all give the winning teams valuable feedback on their programme with the audience deciding what they like", said Eilish Kent, Development Executive, RTÉ TV Drama

Mark O'Halloran said, "We're looking for good stories and interesting characters that will have immediate appeal to 20 somethings. We want as many creative ideas as we can handle so get your thinking caps on and get submitting!"

Closing date for submissions is 12 noon 17 November 2008.

See www.rte.ie/storyland for details on how to apply.