Writing award
A collaborative programme presented by the University of Hertfordshire and THEATRE IS…
The Writing Award introduces playwriting to 14-19 year olds across the Eastern region. Through a range of workshops, ideas-surgeries and residencies young people are encouraged to develop their own theatre script to a level which could ultimately see it transformed into a play, directed and performed by professional artists and presented to a live audience.
The third UH Writing Award, to be delivered in 2010 / 2011, is a valuable and unique opportunity. The enthusiasm and spark shown by young people who have participated in the past awards, has been infectious and inspiring for the audience, drama group leaders, teachers and school pupils. For many, participating in the Award is a once in a life time experience helping to improve their confidence in writing and their enthusiasm for theatre. The top prize is a scholarship to the University of Hertfordshire, so for one individual it can be life changing!
Working with such esteemed directors and professionals has really increased my understanding of how theatre works, and (hopefully!) improved my ability to write as well.
Kirsten Macfarlane2008 Finalist
I find the improvisational aspects of theatre exciting, as through the interpretations of directors and actors, my work can become much more then just what I’ve written down.
Declan Clowry2008 Finalist
Support for teachers
Throughout the programme, you will have access to an extensive range of specially designed online and paper materials, including a range of exercises to help you inspire your students to write. You will also be invited to host a writing workshop for your students, led by a professional dramaturge. If your students are chosen as finalists they will have the opportunity to take part in residencies and workshops as they progress through the stages of script development.
The Writing Award can be used towards the achievement of an Arts Mark
Timings 2010 / 2011
- Sept 2010 Roadshow taken to schools to introduce the UH Writing Award to students
- Oct 2010 Workshops for students begin in schools
- Nov 2010 Ideas surgery at the University of Hertfordshire – a chance to share script ideas with professional dramaturges and pick up tips for development
- Dec 2010 Deadline for submissions and selection of twenty finalists
- Jan 2011 Script development sessions for top twenty finalists
- March 2011 Short listing of four finalists
- April 2011 Performance week and Awards presentation
More information
Natalie Fountain
UHArts Manager
University of Hertfordshire
+44 1707 281279
n.fountain@herts.ac.uk
www.herts.ac.uk/artsandgalleries
