Open call for aspiring young playwrights commences

The Linenhall Arts Centre in Castlebar is very excited to reveal that its specially curated Young Playwrights Programme, in conjunction with Fighting Words returns for a second year. Following a hugely successful collaboration in 2022, young people aged 16 -18 years are invited to find their storytelling voice by applying for one of eight spaces in this year’s programme.

No previous playwriting experience is necessary but enthusiasm and a passion for performance writing is key. Successful applicants will be required to attend all workshops in September and October, and dedicate time to reflecting, reading and writing throughout its duration. The exciting finale will be a rehearsed reading of their writing by professional actors and directors, as part of the Linenhall’s Roola Boola Arts Festival 2023, in November.

Mentoring the selected group are the Fighting Words Mayo team consisting of Paul Soye and Ken Armstrong, assisted by Ernestine Duffy and Laura Killeen and facilitated by the Linenhall’s Arts Access Officer, Deirdre Melvin.

On this supported opportunity Armstrong commented: “When you are young, a single drop of encouragement can sometimes be the difference between going on to explore your talents as a writer or leaving it aside altogether. That’s the most valuable element of this process. Yes, there is creative, technical and critical input too, but for me, that drop of pure encouragement will always be the treasure young writers take away.”

Soye continued: “The live performance by professionals is a real 'Wow factor'. For participants to experience the characters they've created, come to life on-stage and performed by trained actors, is an amazing experience.”

For fledgling playwrights, an informal information session with the Fighting Words team takes place on Saturday, August 26th between 12 noon and 1.30pm. Drop in for a chat, or alternatively email access@thelinenhall.com for further details. The workshop programme is free to participants thanks to Fighting Words, funding from the Arts Council via The Linenhall Arts Centre and Creative Ireland Mayo.