The Lyric Theatre and Fighting Words Belfast have launched a new writing programme to give young people the opportunity to create their own new work for the stage. The Right Twig programme will give 6 talented young writers in Belfast (ages 14-16) the chance to write new plays, and see professional directors and actors bring them to life in a showcase during the Belfast Children’s Festival 2019.
This is the first time Fighting Words and the Lyric have collaborated, to work together with the young playwrights to give them the support they need to get started. Starting in January, the chosen participants took part in a series of workshops, learning about theatre straight from writers, directors, performers, designers, dramaturgs, and other creative professionals. The participants have also been part of in-depth writing sessions to help them develop their new play which will be performed as part of the 21st Belfast Children’s Festival in a showcase on 10th March at the Lyric’s Naughton Studio.
The Right Twig has been led for the Lyric Theatre by Rebecca Mairs, Literary Manager at the Lyric Belfast, who said:
“As a full-time producing theatre in Northern Ireland, the Lyric is a vital platform for new voices. We’re absolutely thrilled to be partnering with Fighting Words Belfast for the first time to find the next generation of local playwrights. It’s been such a pleasure to work with these fantastic young writers over the course of this pilot programme, and we’ve been bowled over by their enthusiasm, commitment, and fascinating ideas. If this group are anything to go by, the future of Northern Irish theatre is in good hands.”
Emily DeDakis from Fighting Words Belfast, said:
“It’s brilliant to have the space to work in-depth with these six amazing teenage writers. They’ve got a unique chance to learn & experiment right in the Lyric — and it’s so important that our national theatre feels like their home. Fighting Words centres across the island are developing projects for young playwrights, and we’ll keep building the Right Twig for them here in Belfast. Their brave voices deserve a stage.”
This programme has been supported by Belfast City Council and by National Lottery funding through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.
The Right Twig is showcased for one night only on Sunday 10th March at 7pm. This is a free event but booking is required.
Contact www.lyrictheatre.co.uk or 028 9038 1081 for more info.
