Frequently Asked Questions

Are applications accepted from Writer / Director teams?

Yes, but each applicant will be judged on their own individual merits. Please make it clear on your application form if you are only prepared to be considered as a team, or whether you are happy to also be considered independently (ie. for a writer to be paired with a different director, and vice versa).

Can two writers apply as a team?

Yes, we are open to co-writer teams.

Can residents of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland apply?

Yes.

Can writers / directors with no professional experience still apply?

Yes, of course! However the scheme is open to applicants with television credits.

Would a credit on a long running series, eg Doctors or Casualty, make a director ineligible?

Whilst only directors who have worked on an original piece are ineligible, Coming Up is a scheme for emerging talent which offers an opportunity for promising writers and directors to produce their own film with a guaranteed broadcast on C4. So whilst a credit on a long running series would not rule you out of the scheme, if you have several credits under your belt already and are established within the industry you doubtless do not need Coming Up!

Is it possible to send several writing examples, such as two short film scripts and a section of a feature script?

It's fine to send several writing samples, as long as the total combined length does not exceed 60 pages.

Can I enter more than one story proposal?

Ideally we recommend you submit your strongest proposal to the scheme. However, if you absolutely cannot choose just one idea, then writers may submit two pitches in the same application, but accompanied by only one writing sample. Please note it is strictly one application per person. We will not accept multiple applications.

Can I apply as a Producer for Coming Up?

I'm afraid we can't accept applications with producers already attached - all 7 films for Coming Up will be produced by a production team appointed by Touchpaper.

What form should my biog take?

Any format is fine for the CV / Biog - it just needs to tell us what you've done in the past in terms of your writing or directing experience, or other experience you think is relevant. Coming Up is a scheme for emerging talent - your CV doesn't have to be 100% industry based.

Can I submit a script intended for the theatre or a radio play?

Many successful applicants in previous years have come from theatre backgrounds and have been selected on the basis of scripts written for the stage. Likewise with plays originally intended for a radio broadcast.

When will I find out if I have been successful?

We aim to contact all shortlisted writers and directors by the end of August. Due to the large number of submissions received, we are unable to contact all applicants. Please check the Touchpaper website regularly for updates.

Will you return my application?

We regret that Touchpaper is not able to return your documents or materials. Your application will be treated in confidence. If your application is unsuccessful all documents and materials will be destroyed to safeguard confidentiality.

For any further specific queries, please email:comingup@touchpapertv.com

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