Accelerate

Accelerate is Box of Tricks’ new development programme for Northern playwrights aged over 35. Sparked by conversations we’ve had with writers in our PlayMakers Network, Accelerate celebrates the value of lived experience and recognises that writers can “emerge” at any stage in life. It is designed to help playwrights develop a brand-new play and make a step up in both their craft and professional writing careers.

Following an open call, 12 writers will join the 9-month programme, which will run from February to October 2024. Each writer will be invited to develop the first draft of a new play with support from Box of Tricks, as well as attending monthly group sessions.

Supported by:

Monthly Sessions

Monthly sessions will include:

~ Craft workshops led by Box of Tricks’ Joint Artistic Director, Hannah Tyrrell Pinder. The content of which will be set in conversation with the group, tailored to their needs and areas of interest (for example, writing adaptations, solo shows, redrafting.)

~ Q and As with industry guests, designed to provide clear insight and guidance on navigating the current new writing landscape. Example sessions might include pitching for radio drama, finding an agent, what to do when you’re not

~ Open sessions - with busy working lives and multiple commitments, we recognise that finding time to write is half the battle. These sessions will be dedicated to writing together, starting with group check ins and goal setting. They will be a chance for the writers to share ideas and feedback in a relaxed setting, supported by the Box of Tricks team.

~ A group theatre trip and pre-show discussion.

Accelerate

Accelerate Showcase

Accelerate Playwrights

Caitlin Clough

Sujana Crawford

Susan Downer

Zoe Iqbal

Mike Kaloski-Naylor

Mhairi Ledgerwood

Ginni Manning

Jayne Marshall

Jana Navarria

Emma Nuttall

Hannah Salt

James Underwood

Meet the Playwrights Programme Reflections

Monthly Sessions