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Laughing all the way to a job

Sitcom pic
Sitcom pic

A sitcom set among the caravan parks in Sheppey should be a barrel of laughs - and help 32 young people find work.

People aged 18 – 24 who have been on Jobseeker’s Allowance for 39 – 50 weeks will be able to apply for the jobs working on the show, to be broadcast over the internet.

The project is being run through the Sheppey Arts Foundation Enterprise (SAFE) which has been awarded funding by the Department for Work and Pensions. It is a joint venture with the Gateway Knowledge Alliance and includes Job Centre Plus.

SAFE is run by Tony Duke and aims to help local people develop their passion and learn new skills through performing arts.

The sit-com is called Park Life and organisers hope to film 12 episodes of it.

The script has been written by Islanders Matt Purnell and Steve Cunningham, and follows the story of two caravan salesmen at different holiday parks.

Mr Duke said: “Originally we were going to do a game show but then Matt and Steve turned up with the script – it’s very funny.

“Applicants don’t need to have any experience – they just need to a have passion for wanting to be in the business.

“I’m getting more excited about this project by the day.”

From November, auditions will be held for actors and interviews for cameramen, set design and construction, lighting, hair and make-up will also take place.

Successful applicants will become part of the film crew and will be paid minimum wage on an initial six month contract.

The finished sit-com will be shown on web TV and Mr Duke is also hopeful major television channels will take it on.

Graduates from the University of Creative Arts in Rochester will be on hand to provide training and industry professionals will provide advice for the team.

If you would be interested in taking part in the project, or to find out more, please apply through Job Centre Plus.

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