A LOCAL actor has used the lockdown period productively by filming another series of his cult sitcom.
Up North, created by Bolton-upon-Dearne actor Dean Sills with collaborator Bradford filmmaker Steve Call, is a down-to-earth comedy exploring the lives of a colourful cast of working-class characters.
With filming of the third series derailed by the Covid-19 outbreak, the cast put their heads together to think of ways they could continue to put out new episodes.
Lockdown Up North, filmed from their homes, is the result.
The three-episode mini series sees Dean’s character Mick Smith talking to Patch Thatch, played by Steve and Skint Flint, played by Keiron Goodwin, and taking part in lockdown challenges.
Dean said: “Myself and Steve had a few phone calls where we were discussing ideas for something to do in lockdown.
“All having cameras at home, we decided we could try to film an episode and it went on from there.
“The first episode was entirely improvised, and then I scripted episodes two and three.”
The spin-off series has been released on DVD after being picked up by Sheffield Live TV.
Despite being postponed for the foreseeable future, Dean has a reason to celebrate Up North after it was picked up by the Lit Laughs comedy festival.
Originally scheduled to take place this month in Harrogate, the festival will instead take place online – with Up North in the ‘web series’ category.
“I’ve been to a few festivals, and while it’s not the same as being there and seeing the audience’s reactions, it’s still great to be nominated,” added Dean.
