Tip Tray Theatre, in partnership with The Hope Street Theatre, is excited to bring back their writing competition 'What Happens Next?' It's set to excite audiences once again at The Hope Street Theatre on 18th, 19th and 20th January 2024. This competition aims to give local upcoming writers the opportunity to see their hard work come to life on stage. For many of us, this is the most exciting event of the year. It's not only exciting for producers and theatregoers but also for the entire creative scene in Liverpool.

“ Myself and Evan are delighted to be producing our What Happens Next? competition again for 2024! Last year was a massive success with over 60 fantastic creatives involved and we can’t wait to get started with this years cohort. This year is definitely going to be a special one and we are super excited to see our amazing playwrights work come to life on stage!” - Maisy Gordan

 

After eagerly awaiting news since mid-October, we now have an exciting update on Tip Tray Theatre's playwriting competition, 'What's Happening Next.' This dynamic and well-established theatre group has announced the list of fortunate candidates whose plays will be produced, directed, and staged at the Hope Street Theatre in January 2024.

Let's dive into all you need to know about this unique and special event!

In case you've been living under a rock, 'What Happens Next?' spans three nights. The first two nights will showcase the opening twenty minutes of eight brand-new pieces of writing. On the third and final night, the audience, along with an industry professional, will vote for the top four, which will then be performed once again. A panel of industry experts will then determine the ultimate winner!

So, what's in store for the winner?

They will receive a distinguished prize package, which includes:

Five days of complimentary theatre space at The Hope Street Theatre.

A contract from Tip Tray Theatre for a professional production of the complete play.

Expert dramaturgy support from Papatango.

A £1000 Kickstarter budget to bring your artistic vision to life.

What sets this competition apart is that 'What Happens Next?' provides a unique platform for playwrights at various stages of their careers to explore fresh concepts alongside talented actors and directors. The competition also offers an excellent opportunity for networking and forming new creative partnerships. Last year's event was a huge success, celebrating an exceptional sell-out run, and this time promises to be no different!

The Eight Shows

Now, let's announce the eight lucky writers who have been selected to have their work featured in this special event:

Half Moon

  Written by: Beth Noonan-Roberts

Four

  Written by: Elspeth Todd

Kill, Boom, Stop and Run

  Written by: Dominique Quinn

Tomorrow Drifters

  Written by: Jack McLoughlin

A Submarine for Mice

  Written by: Paddy Clarke

Pointless

  Written by: Bernie Winston

When Things Fall Apart

  Written by: Adam Stevens

Deported In a Windrush

  Written by: Leonisha Barley

The Directors!

The directors announced  are Ellie Begley, known for her visually striking production 'Pink (incorporated),' and George Caple, who recently contributed to 'Boys from the Blackstuff' at Liverpool's Royal Court. Caple also directed last year's 'Alien' by Adam Gannon. Both are accomplished artists in Liverpool's vibrant creative scene, demonstrating amazing talent both on and off the stage. In addition, we welcome Patrick Mconville and Sophie Compton to the team. Amber Buttery, with extensive directing experience at theaters like Unity Theatre and The Hope Mill Theatre in the north west, has also joined us. Adding to this accomplished team of directors is Paul Goetzee, who has served as resident playwright at Essex University, Soho Theatre, and Action Transport Theatre Company.

 Their combined experience will enhance the shows featured in this exciting event. Speaking on behalf of everyone at The Wire, we are eagerly anticipating their creative vision for all these exciting pieces of writing!

Here you have it, Tip Tray Theatre's 'What Happens Next?' competition is back and generating excitement. Last year's success set a high standard, and this year promises to be even more special. We can’t wait to get the exclusive behind the scenes look with the writers and directors of the featured shows with podcast episodes, Plug-ins and so much more coming very soon at the wire!

Stay Plugged in!

Written by, Sam Mathews

Additional writing by, Meg Kay

Edited by, Christopher Woodward

Artwork by: Tip Tray Theatre