Discovery Networks Asia Pacific (DNAP) in Australia is a branch of the world’s number one non-fiction media company Discovery Communications. This year, it opens its doors with the launch of its annual local production initiative, Discovery Ignite. As part of this initiative, Discovery Communications will be accepting programming pitches towards the six channels of factual, general entertainment and kids genres.
Coming to its tenth year now, Discover Ignite provides the chance for independent filmmakers to submit pitch production ideas for local commission. For the first time, DNAP will be broadening its categories in 2016 with producers invited to submit original ‘distinctly Australian’ programming proposals for the Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, TLC, Discovery Turbo, Discovery Science and Discovery Kids. Submissions close Thursday 30 June 2016 and applicants will be advised in July 2016 if their pitch has been shortlisted.
“Local productions resonate very strongly with our audiences so we’re always excited to receive submissions for Discovery Ignite. Each year has generated new and unique, local stories that we’re proud to be able to share exclusively with our Foxtel audiences,” said Mandy Pattinson, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Australia, New Zealand & Pacific Islands, DNAP.
“It’s a privilege to unearth talented documentary makers and provide them the opportunity to showcase their work on a local and international stage with our global reach. At the same time we’re able to continue investing in the creation of high quality, local productions that our viewers can trust and enjoy.”
Some of the most successful local productions have been made possible with Discovery Ignite. More recently, Saltwater Heroes and John Eales Reveals: Life After Sport were commissioned through the initiative and premiered on Discovery Channel in 2015. Award winning Abalone Wars, completed its fourth season and has been picked up for Shark Week in the US, highlighting its true potential for international recognition.
Other Discovery Ignite successes include: Storm Surfers Australia, Storm Surfers New Zealand, the Ultimate Fish franchise with Andrew “ET” Ettingshausen and Rocket Compulsion.
For information on how to submit a program visit http://www.discoverychannel.com.au/ignite/submissions/
Submissions close Thursday 30 June 2016
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