Book lovers are being sought for a new BBC Scotland television show that will be filmed at a Perthshire venue this autumn.
Inchyra Arts Club in the Carse of Gowrie will be the setting of at least two episodes of the BBC’s upcoming The Big Scottish Book Club programme featuring Scottish author Damian Barr.
The four part show, produced by IWC, will feature Mr Barr in conversation with Scottish writers, literary commentators and celebrities as well as meeting local book groups and clubs.
A spokesperson for IWC said: “We are recording a couple of episodes in Perth at Inchyra Arts and we are hugely keen to feature some groups from the nearby area.
“We’re looking for any groups with a passion for literature, discussion, or who just love getting together for a good chat about their favourite book.
“This would involve Damian coming along to meet with the groups on an evening or afternoon in mid-August as well as the groups having a chance to come along to the main recording in September to question our panel and get involved in the discussion.”
The format of the show is inspired by Mr Barr’s Literary Salon, currently resident at London’s Savoy Hotel.
He said: “Book sales are higher than ever and book groups continue to flourish -okay, drinking wine and occasionally talking about books.
“From Wigtown to Aye Write and Edinburgh International, Scotland has some of the best and busiest book festivals in the world and we’ve given the world some of its finest writers.
“I’m delighted to host the Big Scottish Book Club and invite everyone to join our conversation, readers and writers across the country and the world.
“Books are for everyone and so is this show.”
Mark Downie, Creative Director of IWC, said: “Ever since, as a fan, I first attended Damian’s legendary Literary Salon, I’ve wanted to find a way to bring his electrifying passion for books and beguiling skills as an interviewer to a TV audience.
“We are all thrilled to be making a world class series that celebrates Scottish literature for a channel that seeks to reflect the people of Scotland in all their diversity.”
Perth and Kinross book groups wanting to take part in the TV show can email BSBC.bookgroup@iwcmedia.co.uk