Candle & Bell appoints executive producer

Gateshead-based video production company Candle & Bell has appointed Ella Watts as executive producer to expand its audio output.

Following success with The Newcastle Witches Podcast and the BBC Radio 4 sitcom Tom and Lauren are Going OOT!, the female-led company aims to grow its original radio and podcast storytelling.

Ella brings experience from BBC Studios and Six to Start, where she led production on the Marvel Move project. 

She also co-created BBC Sounds’ Doctor Who: Redacted and directed acclaimed audio dramas, positioning her well to drive Candle & Bell’s growth in the region.

Ella said: “I’m so thrilled to be working with Candle and Bell. 

“It’s a great feeling to get to work beside two women as experienced and skilled as Maria and Zahra, who are championing marginalised voices in the media industry and making great stories at the same time. 

“This is exactly where I want to be and what I want to be doing.”

Maria Caruana Galizia, managing director at Candle & Bell, added: “Audio is a big part of our business plans and we want to bring more audio productions, whether they are original or branded podcasts, radio shows or audio books, to our studios here in Gateshead. 

“Hiring an executive producer is key to growing and expanding our offering in the audio space and Ella brings with her a proven track record in producing scripted comedy and drama.

“With an understanding of scripted audio storytelling, strong editorial skills and an in-depth understanding of the audio commissioning landscape, we are delighted to welcome Ella to the team.”

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