Gateshead based, Candle and Bell’s first comedy series for BBC Radio 4, “Tom and Lauren Are Going OOT!”, premieres today (Wednesday 14 August, 2024, at 11.15PM). The show stars the dynamic duo Lauren Pattison and Tom Machell, who also penned the series, promising a delightful blend of wit, humour, and charm.
“Tom and Lauren Are Going OOT!” follows the misadventures of Tom and Lauren, a millennial couple from Newcastle upon Tyne, as they navigate one of life’s greatest challenges – leaving the house on time. Known for their sharp comedic timing and relatable humour, Pattison and Machell bring their unique voices to this refreshing new series that promises to leave listeners in stitches.
The show will feature special guest appearances from the hilarious Louise Young and the iconic Julian Clary, adding an extra layer of comedy and star power to the series. Listeners can expect laugh out loud moments, a barnstorming performance from Julian Clary, and plenty of Geordie humour.
Earlier this year, Candle and Bell were one of four North East production companies selected to benefit from the £1.5m BBC Small Indie Fund, receiving strategic investment and regular mentoring from a BBC commissioning editor.
Candle and Bell have also been supported by North East Screen through REACH and Open Horizons grants.
About the Stars:
- Lauren Pattison has established herself as a breakout star of the comedy scene and has been nominated twice at the prestigious Edinburgh Festival.
- Tom Machell is an award-winning writer and actor known for his work on Vera, Hullraisers and The Emily Atack Show.
Guest Stars:
- Louise Young, nominated for best newcomer show at the Edinburgh Festival in 2023, Louise is fast becoming one of the rising stars of comedy in the country. Louise plays Becca, Lauren’s cousin.
- Julian Clary, a beloved comedian and entertainer, Julian has been recognised for his work on stage and screen collecting multiple awards and accolades. He stars as Tom and Lauren’s nosey neighbour Neil.
Producer, Maria Caruana Galizia, said of the show, “Working with Tom and Lauren has been an absolute pleasure. We all wanted to produce something that listeners would find hilarious. It is really important that woven into the comedy is a sense of modern-day Newcastle, the people and sense of humour that is so prevalent throughout the city.”
Producer, Zahra Zomorrodian, added, “The Geordie sense of humour is legendary. It’s an honour to be able to share it with Radio 4 listeners.”
Writer and performer Tom Machell is equally passionate about working in his native Newcastle. He said, “It’s just the best thing in the world to finally be able to write something for Newcastle, record it in Newcastle with a bunch of Geordies (+ a couple of honoury.). Our city is a melting pot of talent, and this will hopefully pave the way for more people to invest in North East creatives.”
Of his special guest starring appearance, Julian Clary said, “The scripts were brilliant, and I can now understand a Geordie accent. Happy Days.”
The series was recorded at the Pride Media Centre in Gateshead, with Katherine Armitage directing, Tom Glenwright as studio engineer and edited by Philip Quinton. Steve Doherty of Giddy Goat Productions was executive producer. The episodes will broadcast weekly on Wednesdays: 14th August, 21st August, 28th August, and the final episode on 4th September.
Don’t miss episode 1 of “Tom and Lauren Are Going OOT!”, BBC Radio 4, Wednesday 14th August, at 11.15PM.