Hi ,

Hoping you can help me. I have written a script which I want to get representation for, however having perused through The Writers Handbook and it seems that even agents now ant solicited material.

So how can I as a new writer with no media connections get my work to be read by agents?

Not all agents refuse unsolicited submissions, so concentrate on the ones that do take them first. Those that don't may be open to brief queries by email or phone, after which they'd solicit your manuscript if interested.

What sort of script? If it's for a play or a film there are different routes for those other than via agents who mainly deal in novels.

It's for a TV sitcom (very tough market, I know!).

I've been told to send initial spec letters outlining the idea. I have drafted a letter but having looked at the Writers Handbook, saw many agents were just looking for solicited material already, which I thought was slightly Catch 22.

Yes, a very tough sell. Probably best to send it straight to the BBC and ITV, & google the various production companies who make such things and see if anyone's interested.



- NaomiM

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It's the sort of market where an agent would become involved (to protect your interests) after a production company has show interest in the idea.

So you would suggest going straight to TV production companies themselves?

I was always a bit conflicted as to whether to do this or whether it would be "slush pile" d for oblivion.

I added a bit to my previous post which might answer your question.

If it's what the channels are looking for at the moment then it'll rise to the top of the slush pile.

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Do you have a track record? Have you put anything on locally or at the Fringe? Try to build up a repertoire of material - a writer's platform - to support oyur submissions.

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Also, do you send contributions - skits, jokes, etc - to the various TV comedy shows? That would add to your platform.

I have been chosen to participate various development schemes with TV companies but none have led to any fruition. I have also contributed comedy sketches to TV and radio, but none have appeared on the shows in question, I'm afraid. But I have written two short films that were produced, one of which was nominated for an award.

Thanks for your advice Naomi, I will phone up the production companies and tell them about my sitcom. I will also phone up agents that only accept solicited material and talk to them about my idea, they might want to see it. I suppose enquiring won't hurt!

Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Good luck!

Don't be put off by "No unsolicited manuscripts" - that just means don't send the whole thing. Why not send it everywhere, agents included? Darley Anderson received a film script a few years back, thought it would be better as a novel and contacted the author. She rewrote and got into an 8-publisher bidding war one year later and a 6-figure advance.

Colin M

If you haven't already, might be worth looking at the BBC Writers Room. And also Literature Training (go to Jobs and Opportunities) which often flags up comedy opportunities.
Susiex

I think you might have a point Colin. After all I could live with "no unsolicited MSS!" replies, if for that chance!

There's a good post here:

http://helpineedapublisher.blogspot.com/2010/01/no-unsolicited-manuscripts-ok.html

about the no unsolicited hurdle. Though she doesn't recognise the distinction I make for myself, and which Colin's suggesting: that 'no unsolicited MSS' doesn't preclude the chapters-and-synopsis submission (though I'm not sure what the equivalent is in scripts.)

Emma

Great link Emma. That was useful info!