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The RDS is currently looking for any type of dramatic script. From time to time, the RDS may ask for scripts of a specific length, format or theme, but also always welcomes any script of any length. The most important thing is that the script is well written and specifically designed for an audio medium.
Basically, you can write what you want. This is a fantastic chance to write what you want to write, without having to compromise your ideas to suit someone else's idea. As a writer we aim to give you as much autonomy as possible over what you write.
Be as creative as you like; we welcome original outright weird scripts that really push the idea of radio drama, but at the same time, you don't have to write something weird. We aim to produce all sorts of well-written plays. It doesn't matter if you're a published novelist or someone who has never written a word before in their life (actually, we may have some things to say if that's the case) but your experience does not matter, we aim to give you as free a reign over what you write as possible.
But, at the same time, if you want to write something, but are lacking ideas or motivation, our writing teams are around to help you, and give you a focus and a helping hand.
The RDS plans to produce original full-length, full-cast dramatic recordings. These can be any length up to about an hour and a half, although to write an hour and a half drama is rather a daunting task for a (busy) undergraduate. An half an hour show is roughly 5000 - 6000 words and an hour show is between 10,000 - 12,000 words. However, we are flexible enough to produce shows of any length.
In addition, The society aims to produce a (ir)regular sketch show throughout the year. For this the society needs a supply of witty, humorous, funny, and downright weird sketches. Ideally, these should be roughly three minutes long. This equates to roughly 500 words, although this depends on the pacing, use of sound effects, music and so on.
You are welcome to write and act your own sketches, or to just write them and let us to find an actor or actors for them.
Once you have completed your script it will help us if is formatted correctly. The first page should consist of the title of your drama and a list of characters involved followed by a single sentence description. After this there should be a page break. On each page, the character's name should be written in bold followed by a colon. Any instructions to the actor should be in italics and (brackets), after their name and before their speech. Special effects directions should be on a new line in italics and [square brackets]. Between each scene there should also be a page break. At the start of each scene there should be a brief establishing description of the location in italics.
Formatting sample scripts: In Word format | In PDF format
Once your script is completed and correctly formatted please send it to the secretary. Also include a brief synopsis of your play.
RDS will audition and appoint a director, if possible, and oversee the casting and production process.
If you want any more information about the sort of things we produce you can e-Mail the drama and comedy departments. They will be more than happy to chat with you about the sort of things we produce.
By submitting a script to us, you agree to allow us to edit it, record it, and freely distribute the recordings as downloads or charge for CD recording to recover costs. You, however, maintain the copyright of the original piece, and are free to take your script elsewhere to be recorded, acted etc.
