2 September 2005

Nearly $9 Million for Local Drama and Comedy

NZ On Air has announced plans to spend almost $9 million on locally produced drama and comedy as a result of decisions made at its August meeting.

“There are some exciting projects going ahead thanks to this funding,” said NZ On Air’s Acting Chief Executive Bernard Duncan. “In one case it will enable the production of a second series of the border security action show Orange Roughies, the first series of which is currently in production.

“Added to that is an edgy, urban drama series called Ducks and Geese. It features an unlikely group of twenty-somethings sharing an old villa. And they’re all involved with the law in one way or another. You’ll have to wait and see how, though.

“It’s a premise that offers enormous potential for conflict and the scripts we have seen promise a riveting and surprising series of twists. We’re looking forward to this one,” he said.

Comedy projects approved in the August funding round include the return of some proven series, as well as something new. Around $2.5 million will be allocated to five comedies.

“We’re pleased to support a second series of Seven Periods with Mr Gormsby, following the critical and audience success of the first,” Mr Duncan said. “And we also welcome another series of Eating Media Lunch with Jeremy Wells. Moon TV is returning, and funding has been allocated to a year-end satirical wrap-up called Back of the New Year, from the Back of the Y team.

“New to the comedy stable is a fast moving, fun, current affairs quiz show featuring teams headed by Mike Hosking and Paul Holmes, along with Michael Laws. Out of the Question promises to be entertaining and informative, and we think it will provoke some interesting reactions. It will screen on Prime.

“These programmes represent an excellent start to our funding year, and we think they will provide some great television for a widely diverse group of viewers,” he added.

ENDS

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