Manchester

In Manchester, BBC writersroom collaborates with Contact Theatre.

Verbally Challenged is Contact's monthly new writing showcase. A new challenge is set for five different writers each month, and the audience decides who wins the cash prize for the best writing.

If you'd like to be considered for Verbally Challenged, or if you know a writer you think would be great for it, send a sample of writing: a CD or DVD, some poems, a short story, a script, a rap, a showreel - anything - to katepearson@contact-theatre.org.

Contact will not give script feedback on your work, but are actively looking for writers for Verbally Challenged and other opportunities. For more information ring 0161 274 0642.


Getting Involved

Contact Theatre like to deal in ideas and seeds, rather than fully completed projects. They aim to support writers from the grass roots and see their ideas through, if possible, to full commission.

There are a range of opportunities available to new writers from new writing shows to research and development periods at the theatre, making use of their space and collaborating with theatre practitioners including directors, choreographers, puppeteers, and graphic artists.

Contacts's artistic development programmes include:

• Young Writers In Residence - for new writers to find their voice
• At Home - for emerging artists to define their voice
• Live and Direct - talent for new theatre directors

 

Key points from the artistic director of Contact Theatre

BBC writersroom has been a core partner in Contact's new writing programme for five years. It was through funding from the BBC that Contact set up its 'Write Years Ahead' initiative to encourage new writers. Through this funding they initiated the pitch parties, concept commissions and Word Up!

For more information, visit the Contact Theatre website.

Other new writing opportunities and agencies

Northwest Vision and Media is the Regional Scren Agency based in Manchester. They work on behalf of the TV, film, radio, and digital content industries to grow a world-class media economy in Britain's northwest.

North West Playwrights exists to develop and promote new writing for the theatre in the North West of England.