Cascade Writers’ Couch invites you to pitch your feature film projects! By adapting the standard development process to allow for new talent to enter, we’re able to offer writers from all walks of life the opportunity to further their screenwriting careers. Through Cascade Writers’ Couch we hope to discover outstanding writing talent, develop long-term relationships and develop scripts into successful films.

The Cascade Media Development team – Mark Fisher, Cora Palfrey, Daniel Campos Pavoncelli, Kristin Irving and manager of the initiative Sam Cheetham – wish to uncover raw writing talent irrespective of an individual’s background.

All we request is that you have a completed feature-length screenplay for the project you wish to pitch; are over the age of 18; live in the UK; and do not have literary representation.

Please see the calendar for all important upcoming dates.

This is not a competition. There are no entry fees or prizes.

What are the scheme’s requirements?

All applicants must be over the age of 18; a resident of the United Kingdom; and have completed a feature-length screenplay (between 80 and 140 pages in standard screenplay format) by the time of the pitch sessions. In addition, applicants must not have representation.

When is the next deadline and pitch day?

Deadlines occur monthly, as do the pitch days. For a list of upcoming dates please click here.

How many applications will you consider each month?

In order to manage this initiative effectively, we have put in place a limit of 150 applications per submission window. Once this limit has been reached, you won’t be able to submit an application until the following submission window opens.

Are there any entry fees?

No, this scheme is completely free to enter!

Are there any prizes?

This is not a competition – it's the closest scheme to the everyday development process we could create! Therefore, no prizes will be awarded. It is our intention to option projects which we believe compliment Cascade’s slate.

Do I need to bring anything with me on the pitch day?

You’ll only need proof of your identity in the form of a driver’s license or passport.

Is there disabled access to Cascade’s office?

Unfortunately not. If you require it, we will endeavour to arrange an alternative location for your pitch. Please state your requirements in the ‘Other Notes’ section of the application form.

I’m not available for this month’s pitch day. Can I still apply?

Please wait until the following month. We’re only available to hear your pitch on the stated dates. However, there is some flexibility as to when we can see you during that day. If you have a preferred time, please state this in your application.

How many times can I apply?

You can only apply once during each submission period. However, you may submit up to two applications each calendar year.

Do you accept applications from writing partnerships?

Yes. Writers may apply individually or as a writing partnership.

Do you accept TV scripts?

Unfortunately, we cannot accept TV pitches at the moment.

I’m not sure how to format my script. What do I do?

We don’t judge your script or writing ability on how well you format your script. There are recognised software applications available which are used within the industry.