David Ian Neville

If you've ever wondered what goes on in the mind of a Radio Drama producer, wonder no more, as David Ian Neville answers our questions...

Who are you and what do you do?
I am David Ian Neville and I am a Radio Drama producer and writer.

That sounds like an interesting job, how did you get it?
I trained in drama and worked freelance for many years in theatre, radio and TV as a writer, performer and director.

What do you like best about working at BBC Radio Drama?
I am able to produce a wide range of plays for Radio 4,  Radio 3 and Radio Scotland and work with new and experienced writers and actors.

If you could offer one piece of advice to somebody who is interested in writing for radio what would it be?
Listen to as many radio plays as you can and listen to the world around you. (Oh dear that sounds like two pieces of advice! – so here's the third: break the rules!)

What gets you really excited about a new play?
Characters and a story that is so gripping I can't stop turning the pages.

And what puts you off?
Contrived plots and dialogue that doesn't sound real.

Do you have a particular listener in mind when commissioning work?
Most Radio 4 plays get audiences of over half a million, so the plays need to appeal to a wide audience.

What are you reading at the moment?
Re-reading Arthur Miller plays and The Single Light by Rev. Ernest Levy.

What are your ideal reading conditions?
A quiet beach, a cold drink and plenty of time.

Which would you prefer to have – unlimited money or unlimited intelligence?
Unlimited money would help me to travel, learn and hopefully acquire greater knowledge and intelligence!

Links:

David Ian Neville Profile page

Back to Writers and Publishers main page