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Wednesday 16 August 2023

Phoenix Rise - New Series filming now for BBC

Following the triumphant debut series on BBC iPlayer and in anticipation of the upcoming second series, the highly acclaimed show Phoenix Rise is back in production, filming an impressive 20 new episodes set in the West Midlands for both its third and fourth installments.

Filming commenced this week, once again selecting various locales in and around Coventry, encompassing some of the city's iconic landmarks, as well as the former Further Education campus, Henley College. This endeavor underscores the BBC's commitment to broadening its program production across the United Kingdom.

Conceived by Perrie Balthazar and Matt Evans, Phoenix Rise revolves around a band of young outsiders who've faced exclusion from traditional schooling. As they reintegrate into mainstream education, these individuals forge unlikely friendships and navigate the complexities of school life. This coming-of-age drama hones in on the lives of six students who routinely gather within a disused boiler room at their school, a discarded space that evolves into their safe haven.

A majority of the cast from the initial two series will be reprising their roles, including the core "boiler room six." Their ranks will be augmented by a fresh cohort of young characters who promise to play pivotal roles in a series of captivating new narratives.

Sarah Muller, Senior Head of BBC Children's Commissioning 7+, comments, "Phoenix Rise has deep roots in the West Midlands, and we are thrilled to witness the team's return to their Coventry production hub. This drama fearlessly addresses some of the challenging issues that modern teenagers confront, while also capturing the camaraderie and humor of adolescent life."

Perrie Balthazar and Matt Evans jointly express their excitement, "Phoenix Rise is making a comeback! We're brimming with enthusiasm to return to Coventry and present new, groundbreaking stories for our group of six outsiders. Anticipate a blend of joy, heartache, thrills, and laughter, coupled with the dynamic entry of fresh Phoenix Rise students, guaranteed to disrupt the status quo."

Series two, slated for a September release on BBC iPlayer, follows the students at the commencement of a new term, signifying a fresh start for siblings Billy and Rihanna. As the group engages in more escapades, some members strengthen their connections, while others clash, leading to tension. The unlikely heroes continue to confront formidable challenges, fortified by their unshakable sense of hope, optimism, and enjoyment.

Series two introduces a new character, Daisy (Eloise Pennycott), a close friend of Summer. Daisy is a spirited, forthright newcomer unafraid to voice her opinions, yet like many other characters, she grapples with her own vulnerabilities.

The creative minds behind Phoenix Rise are lead writers Perrie Balthazar and Matt Evans, with production helmed by BBC Studios Kids & Family. Tali Walters takes the role of Genre Lead, while Mark Freeland serves as Executive Producer alongside Perrie Balthazar and Matt Evans. Alison B Matthews holds the position of Producer. The series was commissioned by Sarah Muller, Senior Head of BBC Children's Commissioning 7+.

Phoenix Rise (series one) is currently available on BBC iPlayer, with series two set for release in September.

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