You’ll be probably wondering what I have been doing for the past few years. Script writing and rewriting, and contacting people for advice and feedback. I have only managed to write the one TV series script and a theatre script (which I’m getting assistance with to improve/develop it - see next blog). I'm really proud of what I have achieved so far - it has been a struggle and four years in the making!
I found a professional TV writer (James Capel, he wrote Cold Feet and he’s the founder of Scribe Lounge), who worked with me in 1-2-1 sessions to improve my script writing and develop my TV series, in the hope it will be noticed. He can see my true potential/capabilities and feels my unique script would be successful. Before that, I didn't know what I was doing, I didn't have any help as regarding setting things out and developing my writing style. I stupidly contacted various production companies, agents and I even entered competitions with a basic script (hindsight is a wonderful thing), they liked the idea and concept but the script wasn't good enough. I knew I had to seek help, that's when James came in. I have learnt a lot through James and I am still learning - the TV script has dramatically improved and my writing style has developed.
The feedback that I have received from other professional writers (including Chris Lang, Kevin Sampson and Adam Lavis to name a few) has been so positive and encouraging – suggesting I have a good concept and a natural writing flare.
All this came about because as you know, I would have loved to have been a singer and to perform in musical theatre if I had been able-bodied. With that in mind, I decided to create my own funny music videos, miming well-known songs. The recent video sparked my creative juices as I enlisted the help of my friend/local actor, I wrote the script, directed the video and had the chance to work alongside a musical theatre actor. I learnt so much from the whole experience and the video was well-received online.
Having the opportunity to work/co-star alongside a professional actor, gave me the confidence to follow my dreams and subsequently, write a semi autographical theatre script (Everybody’s BITCHIN’ about Al - the jukebox musical) based on my experiences living with a severe physical disability. As everything takes me so long to do –I quickly discovered the usual script writing schemes, programmes, courses or workshops weren't suitable for me.
There are no theatre shows currently focusing on disability. Although society is trying to make everything inclusive, diverse and change people’s perceptions of disability; the majority of the public are still stereotyping disabled people in all aspects of their daily lives. This was the reason why I decided to write the script and to inspire other people with disabilities to follow their dreams. Over the years, I have had many enjoyable nights at the theatre watching fantastic shows, I’ve seen how a good musical/comedy makes the audience forget their troubles/worries and enjoy themselves for a few hours. This theatre script is very personal and it will take the audience on an emotional journey - providing a strong, humorous and positive message.
This led to having the idea of creating a TV drama (4 part) series that features a disabled female lead and focuses on an intimate relationship with an able-bodied person. Basically, more drama happens behind the scenes than on stage, as a Liverpool, disabled writer/actress and her actor husband risk everything when they revive an old play, in order to gain financial security and have a better quality of life. “Everybody’s BITCHIN’ about Al” represents a new take on disability in general, a topic that TV has never been exactly comfortable with. It’s a humorous drama series that emphases on being different, expressing yourself, accepting who you are and embracing the fact, while not apologising about being different and showing others there is more to a person than what meets the eye. It has a chance to show that you can make audiences laugh (not in a mocking way) while simultaneously changing the way millions of people see their stories being told. This series will depict characters with severe disabilities in a different light and will give an authentic and informed insight into disabled people’s lives – this concept is extremely rare. Here is my one-page pitch, if you would like to read it. If you would like more information or know anyone who might be interested in developing/producing this, please contact me.
I actually really enjoyed writing the series and I feel I’ve achieved something personally. I would like to inspire people if I can and get this project up and running while I am still able to. I’ve had a lot of weird and wonderful suggestions on how to get this noticed, from getting a famous backer, to shooting your own 5 minute teaser to show the production companies and agents etc. How willI I be able to do that? - I don't know but I will keep trying and reaching out to people.
I know it's very unlikely this will happen due to my lack of experience and everything taking me so long to do with the chinswitch. I honestly believe that this story should be heard, perceptions need to change and if I can help/inspire one person - I have achieved my aim!
So that’s where I am at! Still dreaming!
