A workshop with Ian Townsend

and absolute beginners.

The theme was the portrayal of women on the stage.

The group examined extracts from plays exploring potential themes and dramatic structures for new writing.

There was also an examination of the Bechdel Test, which asks if a work of fiction features at least two women talking to each other about something other than a man.

Each participant was given time to write a play or monologue in which men or the subject of men had no part.

The next evening, the writers gathered in the Baum Public House where actors performed each play. Seeing a professional actor perform your work is an exciting and nail-biting experience.

The depths of imagination shown by the writers was amazing given what seemed narrow parameters of subject.

A play-writers’ workshop in Rochdale. This sold-out interactive session was attended by experienced playwrights ●●Ian Townsend during the writers’ workshop