Sitcom Geeks

Dave and James record an interview with Ian Martin in front of a live audience at the Craft of Comedy Conference in Llandudno. They talk about the writing of The Thick Of It and Veep. As you'd expect, there is some swearing.

In this packed episode, James and Dave dip into the mailbag (for once) and answer questions about writing for specific TV names, and the merits of characters we never see, like Mrs Mainwairing. Plus two Ten Page Challenges (get the scripts via the Facebook page), and a chat about pursuing other projects. Told you it was packed.

James Cary talks to writer and performer Mark Evans about starting out, Bleak Expectations, and the frustrations of TV transfers.

As if you don't have enough work to do creating believable funny characters and great stories, when you start to create a new sitcom you also need to think hard about the world you're inventing. More insights from James and Dave on how to do this: Plus a new 10 page challenge all the way from China.

Bill Dare is a writer, producer, novelist, and Senior Tutor for the National Film and Television School's Comedy Writing course. James and Dave grill Bill about writing sitcom, how to get on in the comedy world, and what advice he has for new writers.

With a new series of Newsjack starting on BBC Radio 4 Extra, James and Dave discuss why you should be writing for it, and how. They're joined by Dead Ringers producer and National Film Television School comedy tutor Bill Dare.

Do your big plans for 2016 include making a YouTube video to showcase your brilliant sitcom script? Listen to the advice of James and Dave before you decide. Plus the latest 10 page challenge, featuring a script by... James Cary.

In this action-packed episode, Dave and James discuss what commissioners say they're looking for in 2016, and what they really are looking for. They're joined by The Times' Comedy Critic Alex Hardy with a round-up of the latest new sitcoms. Plus the 10 page challenge.

A look back at the sitcom highlights of 2015 with special guest Alex Hardy, comedy critic for The Times. And another 10 page challenge.

James and Dave talk about those things that are easily forgotten as you establish your characters and plot your stories: jokes. We also look at the First Ten Pages of a listener's script, Ivy View. And they're joined by comedy critic from The Times, Alex Hardy.