North West Playwrights, established 1982
e: newplaysnw@hotmail.com
How it all began?
A group of north west-based writers decided to address the lack of new work being produced in the region?s theatres. They instituted a script-reading service, and each year around six plays were selected to be workshopped by professional directors and casts, and presented script-in-hand in an annual festival.
Pivotal moments
? 1988 awarded the Horniman Award for Outstanding Services to the Theatre
? 1989 regular funding allows the employment of a full-time co-ordinator
? 1999 move from summer festival model to rolling programme of workshops, classes and other dramaturgical services.
The organisation today
? Workshops and classes, often in collaboration with producing companies or other organisations, to develop writers.
? Free Script Reading Service for north west writers; also reading unsolicited scripts for many of the region?s theatres.
? Grants to support commissions, residencies and other writing initiatives.
? Bi-monthly magazine.
A big thank you to?
Melanie Harris and Louise Mulvey, former Directors of NWP, and all who have served on the board, for nurturing the organisation into the healthy adult it is today.
Celebration events planned
We showcased three outstanding new works over two weeks in June at six theatres across the region. Next spring, NWP will mount its first full production with Linda Brogan?s ?Basil & Beattie?, which will tour to at least three north west venues. We are also planning Masterclasses led by nationally prominent writers.