2020 marks a major commitment from the Space, and associate company The UnDisposables, to support new writers. There are numerous events and initiatives planned from January on wards, designed to encourage emerging talent, of any age and background.
Mike Carter, Literary Manager, commented “The Space has a long-established reputation for welcoming emerging theatre makers. 2020 sees us extend this more formally to playwrights. Our doors are more open than ever before.”
Esther Joy Mackay, Artistic Director of The UnDisposables added “Our company began with new writing in 2018. We are excited to be continuing to put writers in the centre of our work, offering increasingly bigger and bolder opportunities for emerging artists in 2020.”
The following events are already in the diary. Everyone is welcome.
January 5th 11:00 am to 1 pm – Writer’s Meet-up
We’re starting a bi-monthly open house Sunday morning workshop and discussion group for theatre writers. There will be the room to discuss challenges/topics, share opportunities and plug whatever you’re working on. Join us for a couple of hours of free fun in the theatre space followed by the opportunity to network and socialise at Hubbub Bar and Kitchen afterwards.There’s no need to book ahead. Just email mike@space.org.uk to say hello.
Scriptspace Submission Window January 6th to 31st
Scriptspace is the Space’s submission window for new, unproduced full-length plays. Each and every play is read and will receive feedback from our experienced volunteer readers. Shortlisted entries will be read by an industry panel including Space Artistic Director, Adam Hemming, UnDisposables Artistic Director, Esther Joy Mackay, Space Literary Manager Mike Carter and 2019 BBC Northern Voice Writer and OFFIE Award’s Most Promising Playwright Nominee, Guleraana Mir.Entries should be sent to Scriptspace@space.org.uk. Selected plays will be performed in a series of rehearsed readings over summer.
Kickstart your writing 2020 January 25th & 26th
Literary manager Mike Carter has devised a series of exercises to help playwrights make progress. He will share a range tools over two days that will help you develop the building blocks of your play and, most importantly, increase your confidence. Designed for writers with any level of experience, the goal is to kick-start your latest project. Places are strictly limited, so don’t miss out.Book your tickets: https://space.org.uk/event/kickstart/Scratching the Surface April 24th
Scratching the Surface is a night of new writing produced by The UnDisposables. The performance will be a collection of 6-8 new short plays (under ten minutes). The team are looking for a range of styles, forms and content with the overarching theme of celebrating new work.You can read more information about the event and how to submit your work hereIf you have any questions or comments about any of the above events, do contact Mike@Space.org.uk or Esther@unDisposables.co.uk. If you are a writer, or a supporter of new work, we look forward to seeing you at the Space next year.