Writers urged to tell their town tale

ASPIRING young writers are being asked to pen a ‘different story of Rochdale’ in a new play-writing competition.

Judges are looking for 14-25-year-olds to write a play which portray Rochdale as a vibrant place to live in and work in, through its rich literary history, cultural diversity and artistic excellence.

The winner will be mentored by award-winning playwright Nicola Schofield, with their script turned into a play to be performed by professional actors.

It will be showcased at local schools, theatres and at the Rochdale Literature and Ideas Festival, which this year runs from October 15-22.

The competition has been organised Rochdale council, Smallbridge-based M6 Theatre Company and Touchstones.

Nicola said: “This is an amazing opportunity for a young writer and it’s the first creative writing opportunity in Rochdale that leads to a first commission.

“This is how I started, and it led to further commissions in radio and television.

“I am really excited about seeing the entries and working with a talented young writer to bring their wonderful words alive on local stages.”

Coun Janet Emsley, ●●Launching the play-writing competition outside Number One Riverside are (from left) Caroline Kennedy, M6 Theatre programme manager; Coun Janet Emsley, cabinet member for culture; Lisa O’Neill-Rogan, creative learning and participation manager, Touchstones Rochdale; Bryan Beresford, cultural & community engagement assistant, Touchstones Rochdale and Punam Ramchurn, Rochdale Literature & Ideas Festival director. cabinet member for culture, said: “This is a brilliant idea that will bring alive the creative thoughts of hundreds of young people.

“We are looking for vibrant and expressive narratives that showcase the many positive stories there are to tell. It’s a unique opportunity for an aspiring writer to showcase their literary talents. What better way to bring the borough alive than through the power of words and thoughts?”

The closing date for entries is Friday, July 6, with the winner announced on Thursday, July 12.