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A local writer is launching a new podcast he describes as a genuine Jersey "cross between Fleabag and Phoenix Nights" at an open mic night tomorrow.
Colin Lever's audio sitcom series 'Open Mic', which was put together with the help of local actors and producers, celebrates the open mic scene itself through the story of a woman’s journey to find her voice after years of servitude.
Colin is a retired teacher who came up with the idea for 'Open-Mic' idea during lockdown, first as a self-published novel and then as a sit-com.
However, he soon realised that "TV sit-coms are prohibitively expensive & the chances of getting it aired limited".
Colin explained: "I then thought of doing a radio play but podcasts are a rapidly expanding medium. I was warned that writing comedy for radio was hard & it has proved challenging, creatively speaking, but so rewarding, trying to turn visual gags into audio.
"Wilson Nash (engineer and producer) has done wonders, making a multi-layered podcast that is of a very high quality, worth of a BBC radio play."
The series, which Colin describes as "autobiographical fiction", follows central character Daph...
"After years of servitude, Daph sets out to find her voice, but open-mic nights are nothing like the folk scene she remembers so fondly. A Rom-Com in reverse, Open-Mic follows Daph’s journey to find her voice. Her exploits through the vagaries of the open-mic music scene, and the many crazy characters she meets along the way. All seeking that elusive gig. Will Daph beat them to it, or will her husband, Reg, scupper her dreams?. Whether you are a seasoned musician, or plain tone deaf, Daph’s quest for independence is sure to strike a chord and keep you laughing."
The podcast's pilot episode, entitled 'Let's Talk About Sex', has been sponsored by ArtHouse Jersey. It is is due for release on Sunday 20 November, and will be free to listen to on YouTube and across major podcasting apps.
Pictured: Writer and director, Colin Lever.
Colin explained: "Its development has been one of fun and frolics from the beginning. It is sure to tickle your fancy. It contains adult themes so is not for innocent ears!"
The podcast will first be aired at an actual open mic night at The Victoria Tavern tomorrow (20 November) from 19:30.
Colin added: "This is only the pilot, and I have five more episodes in abeyance! I am looking for sponsorship to complete the series, so that all can join Daph on her journey and see how it all ends. There is a crowdfunding page at Indiegogo if you would like to contribute, with lots of gifts to tempt you. If you would like to sponsor an episode or the whole series, please get in touch!"
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