The search is on to find Norfolk’s hidden playwriting talent in a new prize launched by a local theatre, and backed by its famous figurehead.
Vigil, Dr Foster and Gentleman Jack actor star Suranne Jones is the president at Sheringham Little Theatre which is leading the quest for amateur dramatists, who will be given the challenge of writing a short one-hour play with a coastal theme.
She, and her film and TV writer and producer husband Laurence Akers, will host a special event at theatre in August where the two winning entries will be read by professional actors to a live audience.
Suranne said: “There’s talent everywhere and The Coastlife Sheringham Little Theatre Playwriting Prize is a real opportunity for budding writers, at any stage of their lives, to get their stories out to a wider audience.
“I think everyone always feels like they have at least one story to tell and this is really their chance.
“We’ve spoken before about how important rural theatre is, that’s why we wanted to get involved with the Little Theatre in the first place. I wouldn’t be where I am without places like this and that’s why it’s essential to get as many people involved as we can – and that starts with the writers.”
Laurence added: “I think when people say ‘rural theatre’ there’s a misconception that it’s all am-dram, tights and Shakespeare but the level of professionalism we’ve witnessed at SLT alone, easily matches that of the West End. The opportunities it gives young people are fantastic and that’s not just acting, it’s lighting, sound, set building, directing, marketing – it’s a real creative hub.”
And he had some advice for entrants, saying: “We’re a country surrounded by water. So everyone will have a story about the coast. Just write about what you know, use people you’ve met along the way for character inspiration and don’t be afraid to use your own emotions on the page. If you combine those three elements – quite often the story tells itself.”
Suranne and Laurence are supporting the new prize through their production company TeamAkers, which is also a patron of the theatre. TeamAkers makes makes content for television, film and stage. Their work has included co-producing the ITV drama Maryland, the Channel 4 documentary series Suranne Jones: Witches, as well as the Kieron Barry romantic comedy play SpyforSpy. They are currently on location in Spain filming Frauds, a heist drama for ITV starring Suranne and Jodie Whittaker (Doctor Who, Broadchurch, One Night, The Duchess).
HOW TO ENTER
Budding playwrights must create a one-act play on a theme of coastal life, lasting 60 minutes, and with no more than six characters. Entrants must be amateurs, living in Norfolk and aged 16 or over. Entries open on April 7 and close on July 1.
A team of readers will shortlist the entries down to five, before a panel of judges – drawn from a playwright, director, theatre worker, actor and regular playgoer – whittles them down to the winning two.
Theatre director Debbie Thompson said: “The prize is the kudos and exposure of having a play profesionally read to an audience, including Suranne and Laurence, who can discuss the winning works in a question and answer session.
“This is a great opportunity to find the budding Alan Bennetts, Alan Ayckbourns and Willy Russells hidden in our midst, while raisiing funds for the theatre, which, as a community arts venue, likes to support and discover the creative talents around us.”
Entries should be emailed in PDF form to hannah@sheringhamlittletheatre.com between April 7 and July 1. A full list of terms and conditions can be found at www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com
