Plug-In: Plays In The Key Of Life

Liverpool has an impressive history of talented writers, Willy Russell, Alan Bleasdale, and Jimmy McGovern to name a few, who have paved the way and inspired new and upcoming writers. Four such writers are Steve Bird, Liz Redwood, Bernie Winston, and Bob Towers.

Born out of an initial idea from Steve and Liz, the four local writers joined forces and established Writers Inc Productions in April 2023. Their debut show “Plays In The Key Of Life” will be part of the Liverpool Fringe Festival and will run from 13th- 14th October at the Hope Street Theatre. Each writer has produced a 30-minute piece of writing. That’s right, four plays for the price of one! What more could you ask for!

I spoke to one of the writers, Steve Bird, and asked him how they decided on the productions unusual title. He told me:

“We chose this title because life events were the common theme throughout the plays, and there is a loose reference to the classic Stevie Wonder album “Songs in the key of life”, and the name seemed to fit this particular project.”

I also asked him what the company’s aim is, Steve explained:

“ It is the goal of Writers Inc to produce at least four shows every year, to showcase the wealth of actors, directors, and technicians that we have on Merseyside. Our first production includes twelve actors and three directors, and we look forward to opening this programme out further in the future.”

So, a little more about the four plays to draw you in....

Jilted Jenny

by Steve Bird.

Two old friends meet up unexpectedly on a night out, later that night in a deserted railway station at midnight, they are told about the eerie tale of Jilted Jenny, as they laugh it off, a stranger warns them that one of them will not be laughing later. A ghostly tale of morality with a sprinkling of humour. Directed by myself, and starring Naomi Reddy, Gemma Knox, Ted Grant, and Shaun O’Connor.

Something To Remind Me

by Liz Redwood

In mid-1980s Britain, unemployment is rife, and a new killer disease is rising. Twenty-five-year-old Kenny is stuck in a life he never wanted and didn’t plan, but he’s resigned to his lot. The only job he can get is trudging the streets trying to sell vacuum cleaners door to door, one day he knocks on the door of two older women. This encounter forces him to face up to his identity, come to terms with his traumatic past, and face the heart-breaking decision he must make, to change his life forever. Directed by Liz Redwood, and starring Taylor Illingworth, Pam Ashton, and Kathryn Rigby.

The Tramp and The Lady

by Bob Towers

An unlikely friendship between a homeless man and a young professional. Through a series of chance encounters they share the events which helped to shape their lives, but something is about to happen, and nothing will ever be the same.

Directed by Brian McCann, and starring Abi Tyrer, Mike Sanders.

Long Lost

by Bernie Winston.

A man’s search for his birth mother has unexpected results. Sometimes funny, sometimes emotional. “Long Lost” is a comedy with a heart. Directed by Ellie Thornhill, and starring Pam Ashton, Paul Taylor, Iain Barrie, Wayne Stuart-Cole.

So, as you can see, each play is very different, a little slice of life! Something for everyone! Having worked with most of these actors and writers before, I can guarantee a great night of theatre, not to be missed!

Writers Inc Productions are really going places and have already identified a follow-up project in February 2024 so watch this space....

Plays In the Key Of Life” takes place at the Hope Street Theatre on 13th and 14th October 2023 as part of the Liverpool Fringe Festival.

Tickets are £12.50 available in the link below.

Words by, Elaine Louise Stewart

images by, Steve Bird