'Dancing With The Stars' producer to helm 'Pitch Perfect' inspired reality show for BBC

BBC recently ordered “Pitch Battle,” a singing contest show, which is partly inspired by the film, “Pitch Perfect.” The show will be led by the producer of “Dancing With the Stars.”

“Pitch Battle” will air in BBC One’s highest ratings slot of the week on Saturday. The primetime slot was previously occupied by “The Voice.” “Pitch Battle” will search for the best singing group in the United Kingdom, regardless of genre. The show will also present various choral challenges, including group harmonies, mash-ups, riff offs and solos, inspired by the singing movie, “Pitch Perfect.” “Pitch Battle” will consist of five heat episodes, each lasting one hour, before going to the live finale.

“Pitch Battle” is created by Tuesday’s Child, the production company of Karen Smith, and commissioned by Charlotte Moor, director BBC Content and Kate Phillips, controller of entertainment commissioning. Jo Wallace is the BBC commissioning editor, writes Variety.

Smith previous worked at BBC as executive producer for the launch and initial five seasons of “Strictly Come Dancing,” which later transformed into “Dancing with the Stars” in the United States. Smith also became creative director of entertainment at BBC before becoming director of programs at Elisabeth Murdoch’s Shine TV. She eventually became joint managing director at Shine TV.

The commission for “Pitch Battle” was awarded to Tuesday’s Child after a three-stage pitch process. 12 independent producers previously submitted proposals, but it was Smith who was given the privilege in the end.

Smith said that they wish to introduce some humour and harmony to 2017 with “Pitch Battle,” a contemporary new format with story, scale and exciting performances. She described the past year as divisive and depressing and hope that the new “Pitch Battle” will trigger a more positive change in the network.

BBC noted that Kate Phillips said that millions of people in the U.K. love to sing for the joy and sense of community that it creates. Tuesday’s Child features an excellent new format that reflects such passion. Similar to “Pitch Perfect,” there will be an a capella round, as well as other exciting vocal performances. More updates on the launch date and details of “Pitch Battle” are expected soon.