From everyone's input to date across the other 4 Discussions, I now have 18 pages of notes to get into a sensible order to circulate to everyone. Good work, let's all take a pat on the back.

It seems to be generally accepted that we need a Patron as a final 'judge' of material for the site - and, clearly, we do need sponsor(s). I also think that getting the former will help get the latter, or vice-versa.

Anyone got any strong opinions / ideas / contacts on either?

I'll kick the ball off - I have a very passing acquaintanceship with Sir Richard Eyre, and could possibly make a semi-informal approach.

Of course, do we all assume or agree that C4 / Screenstage / Ambassador Group / Sonia Friedman Productions should have the honour of 'first dibs' at this?

Possibly, but if they're devoted to TPTT, they might not want another project (potentially conflicting with it) to work on. Sorry to be negative.

Who knows? C4 may be interested in it as a sister project to the whole TPTT thing.

Agreed, and possible - but alternatively, what a great subplot and further justification for the programme!

Maybe. I suppose I find it difficult to convince myself that anyone would actually be that interested. Which sounds really terrible and I apologise.

LML:

When it comes to patrons and sponsors "a mediocre idea that generates enthusiasm will go further than a great idea that inspires no one." (Mary Kay Ash).

Enthusiasm is contagious. So is despondancy, apathy and the desire to quit. Let's start the right kind of epidemic. (Me!)

Jay - you got a schoolies' take on that?

I'm naturally despondant lol

Call me the voice of the cynical.

Push up the motivation people... We know what a good idea this is! Any actor/director/producer that is pasionate about new writing will see that we have something of quality and energy that hasn't been done before...

I'm not saying it's going to be easy, but we will find someone - provided they have the energy we SHOULD have...

Jay, don't lack for enthusiasm, just knowledge.

Willing to cut the sandwiches, make the coffee and lick the envelopes - but can't help with - what will get a bunch of amdramers sitting in a leaking village hall in Nether Buttocks excited!

Ahhhh!

But you can tell us what gets you excited (but keep it clean please, as this is a public forum)...

If you were looking at the site as an outside observer - who would excite you as being involved with the project...?

This thread is about patrons / sponsors.

Can we keep this specific, folks, or we drown?

Adman,

Did you contact Sir Richard Eyre? It occured that if he were to be responsive he might -

a) Offer valuble advice that could help us avoid pitfalls we may not be aware of.
b) If not interested in becoming Patron himself he might know who would be open to an approach.

Not yet Playfull - I'm waiting for some pratt to finish the outline business plan (oh, that would be me). Been a bit busy this last few days, so apart from shuffling everyone's comments into boxes haven't done much with it - but will have it done soon.