Scripted

Bryncoed Productions, the recently launched scripted-content company specialising in returning series and children’s drama, has made its first senior hire since opening its doors.

Emma Yap joins the Canterbury-based boutique production company as development producer. The Cambridge economics graduate comes to Bryncoed from NBCUniversal, where she served as a global acquisitions executive.

Yap entered the media industry in 2013 after being accepted as a writer on the Royal Court Theatre’s Unheard Voices scheme. Her CV includes working in international sales for Bankside Films, as well as producing the award-winning feature film Making It. Yap is also co-founder of Female Film Leaders, which strives to address the gender imbalance within the film and TV industry.

Yap’s appointment marks the start of an ambitious creative strategy for Bryncoed, which was founded by respected drama producer Foz Allan. His recent credits include Sky Atlantic’s intoxicating thriller Riviera and ITV’s Jekyll and Hyde, Charlie Higson’s sumptuous 1930s adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s gothic novella. Allan has a track record in both UK and global production, along with strong editorial skills and talent relationships.

Allan has produced a string of hits for the BBC, including Robin Hood, which he co-created with Dominic Minghella. The BBC One drama, which reinvented the legendary English folk hero for a new generation, went on to become one of BBC Worldwide’s bestselling dramas. He also created the BAFTA-winning drama series Belonging, set in the South Wales town of Bryncoed, which ran for 10 series on BBC Wales.

Allan’s track record in children’s drama is equally impressive. He was the originating producer of CBBC/ZDF’s Wolfblood, BBC’s The Dumping Ground, CBBC’s Hetty Feather and the BBC’s Harriet’s Army, all of which have received numerous BAFTA nominations and awards.

Yap said: “I wanted to challenge my abilities in a company that values creative courage, but is backed by experience and knowledge. Bryncoed’s development slate is filled with enthralling ideas, talent and innovation. This is the start of a new creative adventure and I’m honoured to be part of it.”

Allan added: “We are delighted to have attracted the dynamic and articulate Emma. We want Bryncoed to be synonymous with smart, accessible, drama with an emphasis on series for premium broadcasters and platforms. Our first major project is set to go into production, with exceptional writing, acting and production talent attached. Emma’s energy, vision and ambition will help us to create the next wave of brave creative projects.