Reality television seems to be the recent trend, with countries like South Korea, Japan and Philippines jumping into the foray. While dating shows have been omnipresent for quite sometime; queer representation was almost nonexistent. Stemming past the rampant negligence & abundant homophobia, dating shows are now more daring in their portrayal of homosexuality. But does a dating show only revolve around the emotional sojourn of the contestants?

Join us as we answer this question in our intriguing exchange with “Sparks Camp” Director Theodore Boborol. The show is gaining popularity across the globe and the impact is truly commendable!

1) You have worked as a producer, director, story editor and screenwriter. That’s too many hats to wear. What was your dream when you first stepped into the entertainment industry?

I entered the entertainment industry without setting my sights on a specific job. Growing up as a pop culture fan, I just wanted to work in the industry. That is probably the reason why I have multiple jobs on my resume.

2) Your most ambitious project yet “Sparks Camp” has been making waves across the globe. How did you conceptualize this dating show? Was Black Sheep actively involved in the casting & development process?

Sparks Camp was conceptualized by Black Sheep’s creatives Patrick Valencia, Kookai Labayen, and Daniel Saniana. When I got offered to direct the project, they pitched the concept to me, and I was able to share my input and join the brainstorming sessions.

3) Spanning across two seasons, the show has seen quite a few variations in terms of base concept and contestants. How do you feel about these changes?

For a franchise to last, it should also evolve but without losing the core structure of why the first season was loved, in the first place. We listened to the feedback and I’m happy with the changes because Season 2 offers a different flavor from Season 1, so it’s not a repeat viewing experience for the audience.

4) How do you choose the contestants for this show? Did the criterion change between both seasons?

In the first season, we cast queers who were in the Boys Love mold. It was a season with a “twink” cast but with different personalities. For season two, we were conscious of choosing queers of various archetypes. Regardless, they have to be personable and have an interesting dating background.

5) Have you watched Korean reality shows like “His Man” and “Queer Merry”? Were you inspired by them?

I was more inspired by the reality shows Love is Blind, Singles Inferno, and Survivor.

6) Mela Habijan is surely the highlight of “Sparks Camp”. Was she always your preferred choice?

Mela was hired by Black Sheep as a host even before they hired me as director. I am not surprised after working with her. She is one of the best hosts I’ve worked with.

7) Between Season One & Two, which couples were your personal favorites? Were there any who managed to surprise or shock you?

No disrespect to Justin but in season one, who is not a fan of Alex and Bong?

Based on what’s shown in Season 2 so far, I am surprised with the coupling of Allan and Kyle, but it’s a pleasant surprise.

8) Congratulations are in order. “Sparks Camp Season One” has been nominated in the “Best Original Reality And/Or Competition Programme” category at the “Content Asia Awards 2024”. How are you feeling about this development?

I am beyond ecstatic and grateful. It is an honor to be noticed by an international award-giving body. I hope this paves the way for a larger audience and a bigger budget if ever there’s Season 3.

9) Talk to us about your upcoming future projects related to BL culture?

I am just waiting for Sparks Camp Season 3. Let’s go Black Sheep!

10) We have a lot of BL fans and members of the LGBTQ+ community as our avid readers. Do you have any advice or message to share with them?

Thank you to all the BL fans and LGBTQIA+ members who watch and support Sparks Camp. We see you and we are grateful! I hope you learned something from the show, that could lead you to find your spark!

The BL Xpress would like to express their gratitude to Mr. Theodore Boborol for this exclusive.