Original scripts sought for new Portsmouth Public Media TV show

[Received this opportunity from our friends at PPMtv in Portsmouth.]

Original Scripts Sought for PPMtv Show
Production of new TV series begins this summer

PORTSMOUTH - Four local producers are seeking original scripts for a new television series that is scheduled to premier in the fall on PPMtv, Comcast Channel 98. The show is the brainchild of Lars Trodson, David Mauriello, and Todd and Jasmin Hunter, all of whom have a background in film and theater. The group brought the idea to PPMtv Executive Director Bill Humphreys, who approved of it on the spot.

The show is called "ScreenWright Playhouse: A Short Film Showcase."

"We're looking not only for original scripts, but we also want to help assemble a team of directors, actors, set dressers, costume designers, directors of photography, gaffers, editors and sound engineers who will actually create each episode," said the producers. "When we choose a script, we'll ask a director if he or she is interested in doing the production, and then as producers we'll help that director gather their production team. After that, the directors - who may also have written the script - will create the show according to their own vision. We're looking for anyone who has an interest in film and theater - you can either have experience or you may just be starting out."

Each script should be no more than 30 minutes long and have a maximum of three characters in one setting. The shows will be taped at the PPMtv studios on Marcy Street. Once the production is complete a broadcast date will be chosen. Each show will be rebroadcast during the month it originally airs.

"This is an exercise in creativity," said the producers. "The physical space we're shooting in may be small, but you're really only limited by your imagination." The show will be produced without a budget, but the four producers will work with each production team to gather any materials, props or costumes that may be needed.

Humphreys added that PPMtv will provide cameras (there are three in-studio cameras) and an editing suite.

There are no restrictions on topics or themes or language, with one note of caution: overuse of language that is generally considered offensive may result in having a project scheduled in a timeslot after 11 p.m.  and before 8 a.m. Scripts may be original works or based on previously published material that is now in the public domain. The deadline for scripts is July 15. The producers also added that scripts do not have to originate with local authors. “Scripts can come from anyone, anywhere,” they said.

"Although the shows will not air live, we will produce the shows as if live and record each show in such a way as to maintain the atmosphere of live theater. It’s going be very exciting," the producers said.

An original show will air each month beginning in September. Each episode will feature a taped introduction and a brief Q&A with the creative team after the film.

"This is an excellent opportunity for all the creative folks in our area, whether you’re a writer, director, technician or carpenter," said PPMtv Executive Director Bill Humphreys. "I'm looking forward to seeing what people come up with. It's great to be able to give all our creative folks an outlet like this."

Scripts should be submitted to Lars Trodson at larstrodson@gmail.com by July 15.

Directors, actors and tech people should submit their resumes to Todd and Jasmin Hunter at alreadythere4@gmail.com by July 15.

Media inquiries should be directed to David Mauriello at djmrllo@aol.com.