BBC Studios scraps physical Showcase and moves online for 2021

BBC Studios (BBCS) is turning its annual sales extravaganza BBC Showcase – which has taken place in the UK city of Liverpool over recent years – into a digital-only event.

The virtual Showcase will include a three-day programme of events running from 22 to 24 February, with BBCS promising “innovative, cutting-edge technology” that will allow buyers access to scripted, unscripted and format content and talent.

BBCS said the invitation-only event will offer access to programme makers and commissioners about their latest projects, while production panels and footage will also be available online.

Full-length screenings and promos will also be aired, in addition to insights into trends and audience behaviour from market experts, plus a bespoke co-production forum.

Among the new shows premiering will be This Is Going To Hurt from Adam Kay and produced by Sister (Chernobyl) in association with Terrible Productions.

Also debuting at Showcase is The Green Planet from BBC Studios Natural History Unit, which claims to be the “first immersive portrayal of an unseen, inter-connected world, full of remarkable new behaviour, emotional stories and surprising heroes…”

Last week, BBCS unveiled its new ‘virtual sales portal’ after the UK-based distribution giant confirmed it would have no physical presence at MIPCOM in October, as revealed by TBI. MIPCOM itself has now been moved online-only as the impact of Covid-19 on travel continues.