How did the Pentabus Young Writers programme first come about?
This highly acclaimed, free course for scriptwriters has been running for 12 years, and was set up by former Pentabus artistic director Elizabeth Freestone in 2013 ahead of the company’s 40th anniversary. Supporting grassroots talent and championing rural voices has always been at the forefront of Pentabus’ work and continues to sit at the heart of our Young Writers courses.
What originally started as an offer for local writers in the West Midlands has since grown to include a national course, live performances and digital work. Former Pentabus Young Writers have gone on to Olivier Award nominations, and last year National Young Writers projects gained over 500,000 views on TikTok alone. Alumni have gone on to work with BBC radio, in television, and with theatres across the UK.
What do young people get as a part of the programme?
During the course, you will take part in seven online evening workshops, and be offered a number of one-to-one mentoring sessions, led by experienced writers, directors and producers. You will also explore how to construct characters, build scenes, create tension and write dialogue. You will develop a short script, film your work on your mobile phone, and see it performed by professional actors. Following the course, you will be signposted to further professional development opportunities, and be invited to a free screenwriting masterclass led by Grant Black from award-winning production company Rural Media.
What sort of young people should apply for the programme?
We are particularly interested in hearing from rural writers aged 18-30 from across the UK, and people from backgrounds currently under-represented in the arts and cultural sector. The course is aimed at young people who may not even know they're writers yet and those who have some experience of writing, so whether if you’re interested in developing your skills or trying something new, we want to hear from you.
What are some of the success stories of the programme so far?
Many. Most currently our writer in residence, Liv Hennessy, who started her writing career as a Pentabus Young Writer and is now Olivier Award nominated. Her play Vardy v Rooney: The Wagatha Christie Trial enjoyed a West End run in spring 2023 and was critics’ pick in the Sunday Times and Evening Standard. Liv’s first play Colostrum — finalist in the Women’s Prize for Playwriting — is currently being produced by Jessie Anand. In 2022/23, Liv was on the BBC TV Drama pilot scheme, and has various screen projects in development. Prior to this, Liv was the story editor and producer of ITV soap Emmerdale.
How do interested young people apply for Pentabus Young Writers?
You need to complete an application and equal opportunities form before 10am on Monday 24th March. For more information and to apply, click here to visit the Pentabus website.
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