The UK’s foremost disabled-led theatre company will help to develop the skills of five deaf and disabled writers with their new initiative Write to Play.
Graeae Theatre Company selected Sean Burn, Amy Bethan Evans, Rosaleen McDonagh, Tom Wentworth and Nicky Werenowska from 40 applicants to each produce full-length plays over the next year.
The writers will be mentored by Alex Bulmer, an actor and director, and Paul Sirett, a playwright. The scheme is partnered with the National Theatre Studio, the Royal Court Theatre, and Soho Theatre.
Mr Wentworth, 24, from Cardiff, said that he was “over the moon” to be given the opportunity to write his own play.
“The chance to work with Graeae, a company whose work I admire so much, plus the partner organisations, is amazing. This opportunity has the potential to be such a fantastic springboard to make some amazing work.”
Ms Evans, 26, said that being involved is “definitely one of the best things I will ever do.
“I know how amazing Graeae is and they have been very good to me. They have offered me career-enhancing experiences since 2011.
“As a disabled writer it seemed a very appropriate opportunity. I feel privileged to be a part of it.”
Amit Sharma, Associate Director at Graeae Theatre Company, said: “I truly believe that the Write to Play programme will give a platform for deaf and disabled writers to challenge, change and champion their own work as well as the next generation too.”
Write to Play will start at the beginning of December.
