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.

Jonathan Larkin, author of Paradise Bound

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 twelve 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.  Young Writers Programme alumni include:

Katie Douglas (2001/2)

Katie's first play Fly was produced at the Everyman in Summer 2004 and she now writes extensively for television.  She is currently under commission to Paines Plough Theatre Company and was shortlisted for the international Susan Smith Blackburn Award.

Jonathan Larkin (2002/3)

Jonathan his currently developing his debut Everyman play Paradise Bound into a film.  He is writing extensively for television and is the current Writer in Residence with the Everyman Youth Theatre.

Lizzie Nunnery (2003/4)

The writer of the critically acclaimed Intemperance is now Pearson Writer in Residence at the theatres and is under commission to Druid Theatre Company and the National Theatre.

Michael McLean (2003/4)

Michael's The Electric Hills was produced at the Everyman in 2007 and is now on attachment to Paines Plough Theatre Company.

Kellie Smith (2006/7)

Gas Off, Kellie's debut piece, was featured in the 2007 Everyword festival.  She is currently developing ideaas with BBC Radio and is under commission to the BBC and The Miniaturists.