Y Labordy formulates new opportunity for Welsh language producers

Over a six-month online programme of mentorship and masterclasses, Y Labordy will explore the creative, business and leadership skills of producing, equipping participants with an understanding of industry practice, international appeal and their own unique vision.

Through Y Labordy, the four producers selected to participate will identify where they currently are in their careers, establish how they want to progress and evolve, and learn how they can achieve this. The programme includes individual support from a creative industry mentor as well as group masterclasses led by guest speakers.

The programme will have an ambitious, multidisciplinary approach, with producers encouraged to explore working across film, TV and theatre, as well as other platforms such as VR, immersive and games.

Two previous Y Labordy programmes provided career progression for emerging Welsh-language writers Fflur Dafydd (Yr Amgueddfa), Dafydd James (Gwaith/Cartref), Bethan Marlow (Afiach) and Jon Gower, as well as directors Mared Swain (Bregus), Eilir Pierce (Marvin), Hanna Jarman (Merched Parchus) and Nico Dafydd. Their guidance and advice came from experienced creatives such as Euros Lyn (Y Llyfrgell, Dream Horse), Rachel Talalay (Sherlock, Doctor Who), Arwel Gruffydd (Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru) and Vicky Jones (Fleabag).

BFI NETWORK Wales Development Executive Gwenfair Hawkins says: “It is no secret that the Welsh arts landscape is an embarrassment of riches.  To further support our creative voices, we need exciting, talented producers working across the industries to develop and champion Welsh language content, both at home and abroad.”

Lisa Matthews-Jones, Portfolio Manager, Arts Council of Wales says: “As we come out of the pandemic, developing talent and providing new pathways into careers within theatre, film and television for emerging producers is crucial, and more important than ever. By evolving the Labordy project and continuing our partnership with Ffilm Cymru, BFI NETWORK and S4C, these exciting opportunities will help strengthen and serve the sector in Wales.” 

Gwenllian Gravelle, S4C’s Drama Commissioner said: "S4C is delighted to work with our partners on Y Labordy once again and to develop the next generation of drama producers this time.

"There is a real shortage of producers who can work in Welsh.  I would encourage people who may have previous experience as production managers, ADs, editing or script production, or of working on the production side to come to the Labordy launch event to hear more about this particular scheme.

"There will be exciting opportunities to produce television drama over the next few years and Y Labordy will nurture that new talent ready to meet the demand."