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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 19, 2023 11:50:30 GMT
Press Releases
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 19, 2023 12:10:49 GMT
DARKNESS LOOMS OVER CANVEY ISLAND Soap and Drama veterans Billy Murray and Lee Warbuton sign up for new forum soap High Hopes. The actors play a father and son duo in a guest appearance in a few upcoming episodes.
The men will cause chaos for many people as their sinister behaviour explodes, leaving Canvey Island residents to deal with the aftermath.
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2013.01.22
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 19, 2023 21:35:46 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 19, 2023 21:43:38 GMT
HUGE HIGH HOPES NEWS!High Hopes graced the screens of Writer’s Express this January and has proved to be a valued project with six episodes now under its belt. In an exciting announcement, creator Hannah can officially announce the intention of High Hopes becoming a collaborative project as Willow Lake’s Joe joins the team as co-producer.
“I’m looking forward to the new challenge of working alongside someone else as I have always worked independently, but I want to try something a bit different and hopefully improve High Hopes in terms of quality and development” explains Hannah, who joined the forum in September 2012 with her popular drama series City Girls. After several months, Hannah decided to challenge herself with a different style of writing and created the concept of a soap set on a small island.
Writer Joe joins the High Hopes team as well as juggling his own impressive projects, recently revived soap opera Willow Lake and the brand new family orientated drama Sibling Rivalries. "Having followed High Hopes since its inception and being hugely impressed by the talent pen that is Hannah, I am thrilled to be joining High Hopes. I think the show is in fantastic shape and can't wait to see what I can add to the show under the guidance of Hannah" said Joe on his appointment as co-producer of High Hopes.
High Hopes has packed a punch in its first weeks with its first dramatic and emotional storyline which saw the local pub The Crown and Horseshoe taken hostage. Hannah and Joe promise that the aftermath will be fully explored and plans are already taking shape for storylines stemming from that tragic night, including some rough times ahead for the Hastings and Donovans.
Joe's first episode of High Hopes will air shortly and promises to make an impression.
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2013.02.14
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 20, 2023 10:58:44 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 20, 2023 11:01:41 GMT
HIGH POPE-S! SOAP LEGEND KING JOINS CASTA familiar face guest stars in today's episode of HIGH HOPES, Claire King is famous for her classic portrayal of soap's Super Bitch Kim Tate and this week she joins the cast as Canvey High Head Charlotte Pope. Charlotte will be a guest role with the possibility of becoming a regular recurring character.
"Charlotte is a no nonsense head, she has high standards and is harsh towards those who threaten them" explains Claire King "I am hoping that we will get to see more of Charlotte, as head of the local school, there is a lot of scope for the character"
Tune in later today to find out about Charlotte's reaction to the Steven Faraday and Ava Donovan scandal...
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2013.03.24
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 20, 2023 11:07:10 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 20, 2023 11:17:16 GMT
PRODUCER ANNOUNCES MAJOR PROJECT NEWS
Finally, news HIGH HOPES readers have been waiting for. Producer Hannah can officially announce that there will be a Season Two for the island based soap.
"I am excited, I have spent the last week since posting the finale episodes planning for each character" explains Hannah "I didn't want to confirm a second season without having a set plan in mind, now I know a bit more of where HIGH HOPES is going, I feel confident enough to take the show further"
The season finale left readers with many questions, will Anthony Spencer survive his suicide attempt? Who is the Donovan's stalker? What will happen to runaways Noah Donovan and Megan Hastings?
"Anthony's fate will be revealed in the season opening episode, while the Donovan's stalker storyline will come into the forefront this season" says Hannah "The stalker storyline has been very subtle and is building up slowly, I want to focus on the effects it has on Naomi. It is important to me that this storyline is about the characters rather than a sensationalist story to attract readers. In the same way, the aftermath of the pub siege is still being felt. It would have been easy for the siege to have been sensationalist and last a few episodes, but that event has affected all the characters and that will still be explored during the second season"
There is no confirmed date for the start of the second season, but it will be sometime late July/early August (2013).
HIGH HOPES producer Hannah promises a whole host of new signings set to join the soap in the new season. In the first casting announcement, Hannah can reveal that a new family will join the show, but it won't be plain sailing for the Campbell family. Twins Kyle and Molly will arrive on Canvey Island first in surprising circumstances. "I have yet to cast Kyle and Molly, but I can say the twins will be polar opposites, I am excited for their arrival" teases Hannah. The rest of the Campbell's will follow shortly, headed up by single mother Chrissie Campbell, also yet to be cast. "I bet you're thinking, well who has been casted as part of this new family" laughs Hannah.
Hollyoaks actor Ayden Callaghan has signed up to play oldest brother Harry Campbell while former Coronation Street star plays bad boy Luke Campbell. Harry is the responsible member of the family, he is always having to pick up the pieces for their alcoholic mother Chrissie, while Luke is somewhat of a dodgy character and he often clashes with Harry over Chrissie's behaviour.
Our third signing announced today is the character of Imogen Sandford portrayed by drama veteran Christine Stephen-Daly. Christine is famous for her roles as Dr Lara Stone in Casualty, Kristen Shaw in The Bill (Where she played the love interest of TJ Ramini's - aka Cole Donovan -character Zain Nadir) and Melissa Deverux in Cutting It. Imogen arrives on Canvey Island in wake of her son Anthony Spencer's suicide, she will be furious with Anthony's step mother Siobhan and she will clash with many residents of the island.
Keep your eyes peeled for more news of new signings for HIGH HOPES
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2013.06.21
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 20, 2023 11:24:30 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 20, 2023 11:28:32 GMT
MORE CAMPBELLS ON CANVEY ANNOUNCED
In wake of news of a new family on the horizon of HIGH HOPES, producer Hannah can exclusively reveal the remaining members of the Campbell family have officially been casted. It was announced at the end of June that Hollyoaks' Ayden Callaghan and former Coronation Street star Rupert Hill had signed to play brothers Harry and Luke Campbell. Today, three new cast members signed up to join the HIGH HOPES family.
Twins Kyle and Molly Campbell will be portrayed by Waterloo Road's finest Carl Au (Barry Barry) and Katie Griffiths (Chlo Grainger). Carl speaks exclusively about his bad boy character "Kyle likes to cause trouble, he looks up to his dodgy older brother Luke, much to Harry's disdain" while Katie enthuses about her new role "Molly is a lovely girl, the complete opposite of her twin brother"
Heading up the Campbell clan is Bad Girls' veteran Liz May Brice who plays alcoholic Chrissie Campbell. "Chrissie relies on her oldest son Harry too much, he pretty much keeps the family together. But Chrissie arrives on Canvey Island determined to turn her life around and make a new life for her family"
HIGH HOPES' second season is thought to begin early August (2013), but a return date has not yet been confirmed.
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2013.07.15
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 20, 2023 11:29:18 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 21, 2023 20:01:34 GMT
HIGH HOPES AUTUMN SEASON REVEALHit forum soap opera High Hopes has unveiled a fresh new promotional campaign ahead of the soap’s forthcoming Autumn storylines. It was decided by High Hopes Executive Producer, Hannah and Co-Producer Joe that High Hopes needed a fresh new look to match the shows fresh new approach to its storylines. While the iconic beach title card will stay the same, a set of brand new promotional series cards will give High Hopes a new lease of life.
“We’ve looked at the way we tell stories, in depth, with thought and care put into every aspect of a story, we decided that the show needed to reflect this visually which is why we have chosen to promote some of our exciting storylines” explains creator and head writer Hannah.
“Viewers will see that we have decided to use a promo shoot of young lovers Noah and Megan Donovan from our exclusive photo-shoot as the autumn season front runner. We feel that Noah and Megan are our leading teen couple and they are heading into a huge autumn story” continues Joe “From the picture you can see Noah and Megan standing as silhouette to the backdrop of a sunset but will Noah and Megan get a sunset ending? With secrets and lies encapsulating the couple with Noah’s part in the siege yet to be revealed to his new bride, betrayal is only waiting in the wings.”
So as we head into an exciting Autumn for High Hopes, what can we expect from our favourite characters? Twists, secrets, lies, betrayal, thrilling adventures, stalkers, violence and much more is what you can expect.
Season 2 has already thrown up quite a few shocks as teen runaways Noah Donavon and Megan Hastings married, fellow teen Anthony Spencer survived his suicide attempt as step-mum Siobhan faced the return of Anthony’s biological mother Imogen Sandford, Lindsay Hastings ended her marriage to Daniel failing to forgive his part in her womb removal, and Michelle Fox and David Fields are currently embroiled in a baby lie with Steven Faraday still unaware that he is the real father of Michelle’s unborn baby. So what more could possibly be coming up in season 2? Well here’s a clue… plenty.
One story which will be heavily featured in the autumn season is that of Chloe Charles and her rape. “This is a story that we have approached with caution” begins Hannah speaking publically about the sensitive story “We were anxious about tackling this storyline and we looked at many options when deciding how to proceed. The issue of rape is a sensitive subject, but it is something that happens all too often” continues Hannah.
“With Chloe, we looked at her character, her personality, where she had been in the show and how she could find herself in a situation which was out of her control. The actual rape episode was penned by myself and I deliberately wrote it in a way that was random. This was a random attack. Chloe was in the wrong place at the wrong time” adds Joe speaking of Chloe’s rape at the end of the 25th episode of High Hopes. The immediate aftermath was penned by Hannah. The episode in which Chloe realizes what has happened is an episode which has been written with great sensitivity and care. “This storyline is about Chloe. Her journey of recovery. Readers will see Chloe experience a wave of emotions; Grief, anger, sadness, blame and understanding” says Hannah “The storyline will continue to play out over the Autumn and will see how Chloe has been affected and will explore her journey of justice.”
As well as Chloe’s tragic story, High Hopes is offering up a wide range of other stories to keep viewers hooked on those cold Friday evenings because as the autumn evenings draw in, things are only hotting up on Canvey Island. Teen newlyweds Noah and Megan Donovan will continue to struggle with life on the street as Megan’s health deteriorates. While back on Canvey Island, Noah’s parents Cole and Naomi Donavon deal with the fact their son was part of the siege and a stalker who is hell bent on destroying them. Also, Megan’s parents Lindsay and Daniel Hastings will struggle to come to terms with the end of their marriage.
Another story which will be at the forefront of our autumn season is Michelle Fox and David Fields baby lie. “This story is going to be huge and just when you think you’ve got it figured out….BANG….there’s a huge twist” enthuses Jaay, “Hannah and I just adored plotting the Michelle baby lie, it involves so many characters, you’ve got the Faraday family, Michelle, David, Eileen and even Katherine gets drawn into it” concludes Joe as he tells views this plot is most definitely the one to watch!
Imogen Sandford continues to cause a stir on Canvey Island “Imogen is this character who is so delicious to write for because you don’t know what you’re playing with. Imogen can go anywhere and do anything which makes her exciting. Imogen will most definitely be the thorn in Siobhan Spencer’s side and more surprisingly Heather Connor’s” reveals Jaay “We’ve relished having Imogen join the cast, she is a fantastic addition and boy, once she starts, watch out Canvey Island because Cyclone Imogen has arrived” smiles Hannah.
We’ve also got the rest of the Campbell family arriving to join Kyle, Molly and Harry who are already on canvas “The Campbell family have a huge backstory which will take some time to tell. We’re in no rush to bed the Campbell family as they are going to be strong individual characters but don’t be fooled they are extremely loyal to each other” explains Joe. Twins Molly and Kyle are currently living with foster parents Patrick Hale and Kayla Macey, while policeman older brother Harry has become entwined with Chloe Charles’ storyline. “But it’s Luke who is going to cause the major trouble for the family, let’s just put it this way to Harry’s good cop, Luke is without doubt the bad cop” enthuses Hannah. So as we head into the autumn, High Hopes is most definitely the soap everyone should be tuning into.
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2013.10.16
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 21, 2023 20:04:04 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 26, 2023 15:59:19 GMT
HIGH HOPES GOES SCRIPTED!
Inspired by recent scripted editions of popular projects such as These Days, Uncertain Nights and The Avenue, the island based soap High Hopes will follow in the footsteps with a special four hander scripted episode. Executive Producer Hannah and Co-Producer Joe are excited to announce the Donovan focused episode which will see the Donovan stalker strike against two couples.
The Donovans' stalker storyline has been slowly built up since High Hopes’ first episode in January, the stalker caused the truth about Cole’s imprisonment for murder to become public knowledge on Canvey Island, however when Naomi revealed that Cole went to prison for killing her abusive father, Cole found acceptance on the island. The stalker quickly changed tact by revealing their knowledge of Naomi’s past relationship with lawyer Matthew Fitzgerald who is now living with Naomi’s sister Olivia Kane. The stalker is also responsible for providing Detective Sergeant Michael Connor with evidence of Noah Donovan's role in the Crown and Horseshoe siege which left Lindsay Hastings and his own sister Ava Donovan fighting for their lives, with Noah on the run, the stalker planted Noah’s gun on Naomi where she was then arrested for perverting the course of justice.
“The stalker is definitely stepping up a gear” teases Hannah “We wanted it to burn slowly in the background of other storylines, developing over a period of time. There are so many plots on TV that appear out of nowhere and explode in the blink of the eye. It is important to us that High Hopes concentrates on each part of the story – the beginning, middle and the end, but it is time to up the pace and we will see things quickly escalate”
Hannah and Joe can exclusively reveal that the four hander special will focus on the relationships between Cole and Naomi and Matthew and Olivia. Last week’s episode saw the stalker anonymously send a photograph puzzle to Cole and Olivia, exposing their partner’s previous relationship. This episode will focus on the fallout and the journey both couples will face to repair their fractured relationships.
“I am always looking for a new challenge and I have never attempted to write a script before so I wanted to give it a go” explains Hannah “Writing the scripted episode actually came a lot more naturally than I expected. I think because I feel more comfortable writing dialogue, for me I felt the writing just seemed to flow for me” says Hannah. “Working on the scripted episode really has inspired me to work more on scripts in the future, but I won’t talk too much about that at the moment, but lets just say I have something exciting in the pipeline”
"I was thrilled and hugely excited when Hannah first decided to write a scripted episode of High Hopes. However my excitement reached fever pitch when Hannah revealed the premise behind the episode. A four hander episode focusing on Cole and Naomi and Olivia and Matthew, I just knew this episode was going to be classic heartland drama for High Hopes" excitedly reveals Joe, "The episode is a huge thank you to all fans of the show. We really hope they like it".
The special scripted episode will air on the forum on Friday 25th October.
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2013.10.21
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 26, 2023 15:59:52 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 26, 2023 16:06:16 GMT
SECRETS AND LIES
As the dark nights are drawing in, island based soap opera High Hopes is picking up pace as various storylines begin to take a darker twist. Still on a high after the much anticipated first scripted episode of the soap, Executive Producer Hannah and Co-Producer Joe are excited to reveal a little more of what’s to come in the next few months.
“We’re so excited for the new darker tone to High Hopes beginning in tomorrow’s Halloween themed episodes” enthuses Hannah. "In the coming months we are looking at all our characters and stories and taking a fresh approach to them. In some senses stories have changed and in others the new twists have just added huge dimensions to the show on the whole!" says Joe.
The Donovans' stalker stepped up a gear as relationships were put to the test as the stalker revealed the truth about Naomi Donovan’s past relationship with Matthew Fitzgerald “Naomi is adamant that Matthew is responsible and we will see Naomi’s state of mind begin to suffer as she tries to convince Cole and Olivia” explains Hannah “Obviously the stalker has not been revealed yet, that is a secret we’re keeping under our belts for a while longer. The beauty of it is that it could literally be anyone. Could Cole be seeking some sort of revenge for taking the blame for his wife’s actions? Could Olivia be avenging her father’s death? There are so many endless possibilities” As well as the mystery of the stalker, we will also find out in tomorrow’s episode whether Olivia has agreed to marry Matthew, their relationship adds a whole other strand to the stalker storyline as you have to question whether the stalker is targeting Olivia as well as her sister’s family.
"The Baby Lie is continuing to grow, a bit like Michelle Fox's expanding stomach" jokes Joe before confirming that Eileen Fields will be departing our screens very soon as part of the ongoing plot. "Eileen is a huge presence in the baby lie story but for the story to develop we needed her to leave us for a while" confesses Joe. "However Eileen will be back but when and where is anyone's guess". Also, confirmed for the baby lie story is that it will run until at least the New Year with rumours persisting that the story will climax as part of the huge season finale planned for February.
Another big storyline in the beginning stages is the building feud between Imogen Sandford and Heather Connor “We’ve slowly been dripping in bits of information regarding what happened between the two women years ago when Imogen lived on Canvey Island before” says Hannah “Imogen gets under Heather’s skin, but Imogen is the one holding all the cards and that makes her dangerous for Heather. What’s so delicious about this story is that it involves so many other characters – Imogen’s son Anthony, Anthony’s step mother Siobhan who is dating Heather’s son Josh” teases Hannah “There is a lot to come for this storyline and we’re so excited to see it unravel.”
"A new family are due to arrive in Canvey Island, the Yorkes. The Yorke family will be made up of two members. However at present, neither Hannah or I can confirm their names nor their casting as it would spoil the surprise. Let's just say that Yorke family will impact on a duo who are already connected" teases Joe.
Don't miss our Halloween themed episode of High Hopes tomorrow as you find out Olivia's answer to Matthew's question!
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2013.10.31
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 26, 2023 16:06:46 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 26, 2023 16:20:28 GMT
HIGH HOPES: ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL
HIGH HOPES was created back in January 2013 by drama writer Hannah, creator of drama series CITY GIRLS and most recently CROSS MY HEART, HOPE TO DIE. During Season Two of the island based soap opera, Joe joined the production team on a permanent basis. HIGH HOPES has had its ups and downs with a mixed reception, but has battled against the odds to use the feedback to constantly find ways to improve its quality and find its own identity.
This January saw HIGH HOPES celebrate its one year anniversary; Hannah and Joe take a look back at the past year and talk about their favourite Canvey Island storylines.
Enough talking about the past, what about the future for HIGH HOPES? “There are only six episodes left of the season, but there are still lots of twists and turns to come” promises Hannah.
Steven knows the truth about Michelle’s baby, but is keeping quiet for now. “Michelle gives birth very soon and it stirs a lot of emotions up in all those involved” teases Hannah. “For such a big secret, there are a lot of people who know. Obviously Michelle and David, Eileen, Duncan and now Steven. What I can reveal is that Sophia will discover the truth before the season is out.” "Season two really was for us the season of the baby lie. While it's been a slow burn story, it is about to explode. The final piece of the jigsaw is Sophia. Once Sophia discovers the truth, this story is going to turn completely on it's head and go off in a direction that no one will see coming" reveals an excited Joe. "This story has been running from episode 1 when Steven and Michelle were continuing their affair but now that the truth is close to being revealed, its time to see where this story can really go. We're about to reach the guts of the story, viewers are in for a real treat."
We finally meet the last member of the Campbell family as Luke arrives in quite a memorable fashion. “Luke and Harry are polar opposites” explains Hannah. “While Harry is kind, moralistic and spends his life on the right side of the law, Luke is an out and out villain, there is no other way to describe him” Luke will immediately show his true colours as it is revealed where younger brother Kyle gets his liking for drugs from. “Luke has his fingers in a lot of dirty pies, but the extent of his behaviour will not be revealed until Season Three, in the meantime, you will see Luke cause problems between Kyle and his girlfriend Vicki, but does Luke have an ulterior motive?”
And Finally...
HIGH HOPES | SEASON THREE | Confirmed!
HIGH HOPES will be returning for a third season, there is no confirmed date yet, but rumours suggest that the series could be returning around April/June (2013) time.
“I’m very excited for Season Three, we have already begun thinking about storylines and directions we can take different characters” teases Hannah “The season will open with the focus being on the trial of Noah for armed robbery, Noah’s trial is something that has been coming for a long time and we promises that it won’t be all plain sailing, there’ll be some twists and turns”
"We have a fantastic group of teens on Canvey Island, our brat pack. We've got a really exciting story coming up in Season Three for our teens. It's going to make some new hero and villains" says Joe speaking at the High Hopes Anniversary press release. "This story will see Anthony and Tate face a huge battle, Mia cope with some shock decisions and Kyle and Vicki, well Kyle and Vicki are just an accident waiting to happen aren't they" teases Joe.
High Hopes continues through January and February every Friday.
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2014.01.19
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 26, 2023 16:21:19 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 26, 2023 16:25:09 GMT
NAOMI RYAN JOINS CAST
There is a new strong willed female heading to Canvey Island in time for the Season Two Finale, actress Naomi Ryan joins the island based soap as easygoing, fun loving Natalie Hunt. Natalie arrives for the vow renewal of her old friend Sophia Faraday and promises to become a prominent figure in Sophia's life as she still struggles to deal with the knowledge of her husband Steven's love child with Michelle Fox.
"Natalie adds a little flavour to the show and she reminds Sophia of the woman she used to be before she settled for a life with Steven" explains Hannah. "Natalie has a real spark which ignites Sophia as well as some other Canvey Island residents"
Natalie is played by actress Naomi Ryan, famed for her roles as Leann Evans (Mile High), Becky James (The Bill), Ashleigh King (Dream Team) and Jackie Hughes (Echo Beach).
Look out for Natalie as she arrives in the first of a double season finale this Friday.
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2014.02.12
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 26, 2023 16:25:58 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 26, 2023 16:42:34 GMT
HIGH HOPES: NOW AND THEN
The team behind island based soap High Hopes celebrated a successful WriXA ceremony this weekend after walking away from 2013’s summer ceremony empty handed. The year old soap made creator and producer Hannah and co-producer Joe very proud to scoop three awards.
The show picked up an award for BEST SOAP SCENE for the scene which saw a hospitalised Megan Donovan finally find out the truth that her new husband Noah was one of the gunmen that took her families’ pub hostage. The siege saw Megan trapped and her mother Lindsay and Noah’s own sister Ava shot and fighting for their lives. "Wow" enthuses a both shocked and surprised Joe as he accepts the award for Best Soap Scene. "When writing, you never think about awards, you just want to produce the best drama you can with the characters you have at hand and I guess I was blessed that I got to climax the truth of Noah's involvement in the siege as a devastated Megan finally learned the truth about her husband" offers Joe. "Hannah plotted a brilliant story in the siege and I was privileged to be allowed write the scene where Megan discovered the truth. I remember writing the scene and I thinking this is raw and true, it was hard to write but completely fulfilling from a writers point of view" concludes Joe before adding that he'd like to thank everyone who voted for the scene.
High Hopes also won BEST SOAP PLOT for Patrick Hale’s death and aftermath. “Patrick is a character who didn’t have much of an impact, he only actually appeared in eighteen episodes” explains Hannah “But his death and the aftermath really brought those left behind into the forefront. We shared Kayla and the twins’ grief and their journey to move on.” The Christmas offering of High Hopes saw Kayla receive the devastating news that Patrick’s body had been found. "Good old Patrick, our lucky charm" smiles Joe, "He's done more for us and the show in death than he did in life. When we were discussing the possible stories for Patrick and Kayla in season 2, we always got stumped on what to do with him. What do you do with the nice guy? Well you kill him off" reveals Joe. "Patrick's death story took a while to both pitch and plot but it has totally paid off. Kayla and the twins have really gained a presence in the show following Patrick’s death. And keep watching cos it's ain't over yet" teases Joe.
High Hopes scored a hat trick with a third WriXA with BEST CHRISTMAS EPISODE, 2x24 ‘You two have murdered enough Christmas classics as it is sweetheart’ saw the aftermath of Heather Connor’s affair and the reveal that daughter Vicki was fathered by Robert Spencer as well as Kayla Macey finding out the news of Patrick Hale’s death. “So much heart and soul went into our Christmas offerings and we are so proud of those episodes and the progress High Hopes had made over the last few months” says Hannah.
"Ah the Christmas episodes, I remember them well, God, Hannah and I must have spent a whole weekend on the computer to each other to ensure these episodes were amazing and I have to admit, I think they were amazing. They had some much drama matched with comedy in them, it was a hard to pick a favourite out of the two but I guess you the forum has decided for us and chosen our second offering" thanks a grateful Joe, "The aftermath of Heather's secret and the revelation of Patrick's death were brilliant centrepieces and I think the episodes really paid as game changers for all those involved" concludes Joe.
The recent season finale saw a few twists and turns, especially for those involved in the ‘baby secret’ as popular Michelle Fox died after suffering from a brain aneurysm "I'd just like to add that we are also so proud of Michelle Fox, David Fields, Steven and Sophia Faraday" adds Joe, "They did us and their story proud. We are really once again only at the very beginning of this story as Michelle's death will prove to a real turning point for all those involved" smiles Joe as he confirms that further twists are in store for the Fields and Faraday families when High Hopes returns.
High Hopes will return in April for a third season; however an exact date has not been confirmed yet. In the meantime Hannah and Joe have some exciting news…
Inspired by the City Girls’ spin off which took readers back in time to witness the true story between characters Sammy Davis, Drew Tyler and Sean Carver, it’s High Hopes’ turn to delve into the past as readers will finally find out the truth about what led sinister Matthew Fitzgerald to torment former lover Naomi Donovan to the point of madness.
The spin-off will consist of three possibly four special episodes which flashback in time fifteen years where Naomi first met Matthew. The events of their relationship will unfold and the final episode will journey through Matthew’s time on Canvey Island and reveal the truth about his evil deeds.
“We are truly excited for the spin-off” explains Hannah “We wanted you to see for yourselves exactly what happened to make Matthew the man he is today and just what he is capable of. There are so many questions – What could make Matthew hate Naomi that much? What about Olivia, is Matthew genuine in his feelings for his wife? So many questions, I can’t promise they’ll all be answered but the journey will be fun and full of twists and turns”
“We are also excited to reveal our latest signing” teases Hannah “Suzanne Shaw has signed up to appear in our special spin off, what an honour for us, Uncertain Nights’ Jasmine Clark on High Hopes, what a coup.” Hannah and Joe are remaining tight lipped about the details of Suzanne’s role, but can promise that she plays a vital role in the story.
High Hopes | A Step Back in Time will kick off this March and with Season Three following in April.
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2014.02.24
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 26, 2023 16:43:08 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 26, 2023 16:44:28 GMT
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2014.02.28
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 26, 2023 16:48:41 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 27, 2023 13:15:50 GMT
HIGH HOPES: SEASON 3 AND BEYOND
It’s official, this April will see island based soap HIGH HOPES enter its third season as Creator and Executive Producer Hannah and Co-Producer Joe exclusively reveal the return date for much anticipated season opener. HIGH HOPES will return to the forum on Monday 21st April 2014 after a ten week hiatus. “The break between season two and three has actually been longer than I anticipated due to some personal problems” explains Hannah “These things can’t be helped, but I would like to thank Joe for being so patient and for being an incredibly supportive friend when I have needed it the most. I would also like to take this chance to thank my friends on the forum for your well wishes and kindness during the past couple of months, it hasn’t been easy. But a new season is upon us and a fresh beginning and I hope you enjoy what we have to offer as much as we do.”
HIGH HOPES’ double season finale saw the tragic death of popular Michelle Fox as well as the reveal that Matthew Fitzgerald was the Donovan stalker. This followed through to a special spin off which gave readers an insight to the reasons behind Matthew’s campaign.
The new season also sees HIGH HOPES unveil a new look title card “I have kept the original image as it has sentimental meaning to me” explains Hannah “The beach shot was taken from the beach I grew up on and this is the place which inspired HH’s setting” The new look title card unveils a new font and colour, giving HH a fresh feeling for the new season.
HIGH HOPES returns next week with a bang as Noah Donovan faces up to his mistakes in an exciting five night special. "It's been a long time coming but Noah must finally face the music" begins Joe, "The trial is a hugely important story for us and we have some time to approach this story. The trial has many twists and turns in it which we are sure will keep readers guessing right til the very end" teases Joe. “The Crown and Horseshoe siege was one of the first major storylines to grace HIGH HOPES and it reaches a full circle by the end of these episodes” says Hannah.
"As one of the longest ever stories to grace the forum, it is quite an exciting time for HIGH HOPES as the five night trial special sees the siege finally climax over a year since that terrible night" confides Joe. Readers will remember way back in Season One of HIGH HOPES when the Crown and Horseshoe was held hostage by the Thompsons and Noah Donovan. Lindsay Faraday lost her womb and ultimately her marriage, Ava Donovan was shot and has since fallen into a web of self harm and Siobhan Spencer developed a fear of going outside in the aftermath of that fateful night. "This story needed a solid ending and we are happy that this will be achieved as the trial reaches its gripping finale."
This week will also see the lives of the Canvey Island teens change forever as a friendly night out ends in tragedy. “We don’t want to say too much about what happens” teases Hannah “But it will change everything. We feel we’ve got quite a strong teen scene at the moment – Vicki Connor keeps us on the edge of our seats with every turn, Kyle Campbell is the bad boy with a heart, Mia Faraday and Molly Campbell are the friends caught in the middle, while Anthony Spencer and Tate Yorke are the loved up couple you want to see live happily ever after”
#TeenNightofHorror. "Twitter will be alive with the tweets of the Canvey Island's teen's tragic night of horror" reveals Jaay. "While we are keeping details of this storyline close to our chest, the teens story is a gripping side story to that of the trial. An innocent night out take's a tragic turn that sets in motion in a chain of events which will affect everyone on the Island as the aftermath unfolds."
Don't miss any of the action as HIGH HOPES explodes back on to the forum for it's thrilling third season.
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2014.04.16
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 27, 2023 13:16:56 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 27, 2023 13:24:52 GMT
BANK HOLIDAY BUBBLE
High Hopes reaches for the stars this Bank Holiday as Michelle Fox returns from the dead.
In a first for High Hopes, Creator and Executive Producer Hannah and Co-Producer Joe bring the character of Michelle Fox back to Canvey Island for one final outing as part of a “soap bubble.” “Michelle returns to the island from beyond the grave. It's a bittersweet episode in which Michelle says a very final goodbye to David and Alfie. It's beautifully sad” says Joe as he explains the premise of the “soap bubble.”
“This episode has a very poignant feel the whole way through, I remember when I read the whole episode through for the first time, I had a real lump in my throat” says Hannah fondly as she thinks about the character of Michelle. “Michelle was always one of my favourite characters to write for, she was sparky, feisty and even though she made mistake, we all still loved her.”
Readers will remember that Michelle sadly passed away in partner David Fields arms in the Season Two finale in February. Having been embroiled in a love square with Steven and Sophia Faraday, David and Michelle were at the centre of the action in Season Two. Having given to birth to Steven's son Alfie mere days before her death, Michelle tragically met her end after kissing her son for the final time. “This special episode picks up moments after Michelle's death but from there on in, the episode takes a different path. Michelle will be speaking from beyond. She'll be looking at the world from the other side” explains Joe, “Michelle's take on things now that she can see the whole picture should make for a fascinating read.”
“You will see Michelle start to see another dimension to the community that she has lived in and gain a deeper understanding of the people she used to interact with in her daily life” teases Hannah. “We are always eager at High Hopes to do different things, to push ourselves as writers and to give our characters a unique voice and presence. And with Michelle, we were happy to return to the character, even if it is only in a soap bubble” smiles Joe.
Bank Holiday Monday will see Michelle’s one off return in the very first High Hopes’ Soap Bubble as we all say a final goodbye to the much loved character.
Coming this summer to Canvey Island…
• Mia Faraday's struggle will continue but she will also find herself in an unlikely love triangle. • Just what is wrong with Siobhan Spencer? • A new love interest for Josh Connor? Here's a clue, it's not Andrea Yorke. • The net is closing in on Matthew Fitzgerald, but you can't corner a rat for long, can you? • It's crunch time for Duncan Faraday and Eileen Fields. • David Fields falls deeper into despair. • Nicki Grant will return and will immerse into Chloe Charles’ life. • A very surprising kiss is on the way. • Vicki Connor is going to depart Canvey Island, but how will she exit and for how long?
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2014.05.04
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 27, 2023 13:25:48 GMT
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Post by Chloe (admin) on Feb 27, 2023 13:35:37 GMT
PRODUCER INTERVIEW
This is your chance to ask Hannah anything in an upcoming Producer's Interview. Hannah is Creator and Executive Producer of projects including CITY GIRLS, CROSS MY HEART HOPE TO DIE, HIGH HOPES and BEHIND CLOSED DOORS. Writing since the age of eighteen, Hannah hits twenty five this year and as a treat for loyal followers of Hannah Productions, Hannah has decided to ask for your questions to include in a bumper Producer's Interview.
You can ask anything about writing in general, future plans and/or specific questions for any of Hannah Production projetcs. Please send in any questions via PM or Chatzy or Twitter by Saturday 31st May 2014 in time for a June special interview
• ORIGINAL PUBLICATION: 2014.05.13
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