The Young Writers Programme

This introduces writers aged 16 to 25 to playwriting as a unique, imaginative and invaluable way to express themselves creatively. We aim to open up theatre to the most innovative, original and exciting new voices, to create a new generation of Liverpool writers who will challenge and engage nationwide audiences. The Group creates a forum for practical exploration and discussion as well as entering into a dialogue with practicing professionals, allowing them to gain a solid grounding in the practical and vocational aspects of playwriting as well as offering them the unique opportunity to learn from those with years of experience.

“I’ve enjoyed the course and found it to be challenging and informative. Great atmosphere, a nice place and I look forward to coming back”
Jonathan Larkin, Associate Writer

Programme Outline
Each September 12 writers are invited to join working closely with the Theatres’ Literary Manager and a professional playwright. An initial term of ten weekly workshops will introduce them to the fundamentals of playwriting such as character, narrative, structure, theatricality, dialogue, theme, plot and atmosphere. The second term, from January to March, is ten weekly workshops focusing on the development of full length plays, the re-drafting process and writing for different genres and media. Throughout the course, the Group enjoys masterclasses with visiting practitioners, an extensive amount of reading and the opportunity to see productions at the Everyman and Playhouse Theatres for free. Past practitioners include Directors Gemma Bodinetz, John Tiffany, Philip Wilson, Indhu Rubasingham; Writers Willy Russell, Jimmy McGovern, Shaun Duggan, Helen Blakeman, Chloe Moss, Maurice Bessman and Stephen Butchard; Designer Jocelyn Meall and BBC Producer Melanie Harris. The Young Writers Programme has also recently raised its profile, with partnerships with the London Royal Court Theatre, Manchester Royal Exchange Theatre and London Soho Theatre and Writers Centre.

Many of the writers have benefited from the Young Writers Programme, whether or not they decide to pursue a professional career in writing. Katie Douglas, whose first play Fly was produced at the Everyman in Summer 2004, originally developed her work through the Young Writers Programme. Other writers have won places on under and post-graduate courses in creative writing at universities around the country. Writers have gone on to acquire Literary Agents, gain commissions for work in TV and theatre, see their work produced in other theatres in Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, Edinburgh and London as well as being able to submit their work as part of their GCSE, A-Level or Degree Coursework.

“Joining the Young Writers Programme is one of the best things I’ve ever done.  Meeting with fellow writers, as well as gaining insight from professionals working in all aspects of the theatre, has made me realise that this is what I want to do in my life.”