The Oldham Coliseum’s successful annual new writing festival, First Break, showcases emerging theatre companies and writers from the region. The 2016 First Break takes place from Thursday 12 – Saturday 14 May 2016.
Following the appointment of new Associate Director, Chris Lawson, the Coliseum is committed to developing the work of emerging artists and companies from across the region to explore the stories and issues that affect and reflect the local communities and they’re calling out for early/mid-career writers to get involved. They offer a safe and welcoming creative environment to take your work to the next level.
Eligibility: They are happy to accept work from writers all over, although they would encourage that the themes, characters or setting have some connection to the Northwest if possible. [Editor’s note: we checked with the organisers to confirm this!]
What you get: From the plays submitted, four writers will be selected to have their work professionally debuted as rehearsed readings as part of the First Break New Writing Festival, The winning writers will also benefit from:
- The support of a professional director
- Dramaturgical support – to mentor you through the development of your work
- Plays performed by professional actors
- Access to tech and studio support
- Guidance through the process from page to stage
- Networking opportunities with other writers and industry contacts
- The festival is a great opportunity to showcase the best in new writing and emerging talent in front of a supportive audience
What to submit: The scripts should follow the following theme:
Untold stories: Giving a voice to those without one, we encourage you to script an original short play based on a story/experience someone has shared with you. This could be a friend, relative, colleague or someone from your local community. What does Oldham, Greater Manchester and the North West mean to them? How did they arrive here? How have they seen it change…and how do they imagine its future? Use this opportunity to explore Oldham and beyond through the eyes of those who live it, love it or leave it.
Plays should last no longer than 15 minutes and feature a maximum of four characters.
How to apply: To enter the competition they ask that you submit by email AND two hard copies of your play and include your name, age, email address and postal address.
Please post your entries to:
First Break Writing Competition
The Oldham Coliseum Theatre
Fairbottom Street
Oldham
OL1 3SW
By email to: chrislawson@coliseum.org.uk
Due to the large number of entries they expect to receive, they regret that they are unable to provide individual feedback.
Deadline: Monday 22 February 2016
Source: Word of mouth