13 JUL 2021

BBC STUDIOS' SHOWCASE EVENT WILL BE ENTIRELY DIGITAL IN 2022

The event was initially said to be offered both, virtually and in person, but later transitioned to fully digital amid ongoing concerns related to the Covid-19 pandemic. The three-day event will begin on 28th February, 2022.

13 JUL 2021

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BBC Studios has confirmed its annual Showcase event to be Showcase market will take place in digital form only for a second year in 2022. “We’re proud that BBC Studios Showcase has made the UK a key destination for the world’s content buyers but the pandemic has accelerated changes in the way we can help them discover our shows,” Paul Dempsey, President of global distribution, said.

The event is usually hosted by the commercial and production arm of the UK pubcaster in Liverpool but went online-only in 2021 owing to the Covid-19 pandemic. BBCS has now confirmed it plans to do the same again in 2022, with the 46th iteration of Showcase set to use the virtual platform rolled out last year.The 2022 version will again offer online screenings as well as interviews with talent and masterclasses, with the three-day program running from 28 February to 2 March.

Over 1,400 delegates contributed to the conference's online masterclasses, panels and program sales market. “Their terrific response to our virtual Showcase earlier this year, coupled with continued uncertainty around international travel means that we will once again bring our content to customers digitally next February," Dempsey said. "Of course, there’s nothing like meeting face to face and we are very much looking forward to the time when we can get together again.”

Buyers will also be able to hear from program makers and key commissioners about their latest projects, while production panels will offer insights and latest footage from the cutting room. There will also be the chance for co-pro and finance partners to hear about a range of new projects at very early stages of development. A BBCS spokesman told TBI that the company is “currently focused on 2022 and not beyond that,” with no decision made on future editions of the physical Showcase.

Series set to premiere to the global market include the second season of blue chip natural history series Frozen Planet and fellow factual series The Greatest Show on Earth. In scripted, The Following Events are Based on a Pack of Lies, created and written by Penelope and Ginny Skinner and produced by Chernobyl’s Sister, is a six-part thriller about two women and the conman they have in common. Blue Lights, a six-part original police drama created by the writers of The Salisbury Poisonings, Adam Patterson and Declan Lawn, will also be available.

We’re proud that BBC Studios Showcase has made the UK a key destination for the world’s content buyers but the pandemic has accelerated changes in the way we can help them discover our shows.” Paul Dempsey President of Global Distribution, BBC Studios