The annual New Writing Festival has begun at The Lantern Theatre, Sheffield, where inspiring writers, directors and actors are given the chance to shine on the main stage.
Running for over ten years, the festival is made up of five shows, with ten performances each night.
The cast contains members of all ages, with actors and directors ranging anywhere from early 20s to 50 and over.
Ben Sanderson, a director and actor in the festival, said: “To be in a show, where you’re alongside people playing roles of a similar age to the actual character, makes it even more real and much more exciting.”
The festival is aiming to keep theatre alive in Sheffield, giving anyone who is interested in trying their hand at being involved in a play, a chance to act or direct.
Mr Sanderson said: “Sheffield’s just a really rich place when it comes to theatre, so I think it’s really important that it’s shared with everyone.
“It’s not just for the professionals, it’s for all generations, young and old.”
The shows display a variety of genres, going from comedies, to hard hitting, real world events.
All ten scripts are performed by the same cast members, displaying their acting range, and ability to adapt to different plays and demands.
The festival allows for anyone with a passion for writing to get some exposure for their work and to see their visions come to life on stage.
Nigel Turner, producer for the New Writing Shorts, said: “It’s very difficult for any playwright, whatever level they’re at, to get their work on the stage, so as a community theatre, we’re trying to offer them an opportunity to do that and offer them a platform for their work.”
The Lantern Theatre prides itself on being a welcoming space for people wanting to involve themselves in theatre.
Mr Sanderson said: “Just go for it, give it a try, you never know if you don’t try. There are opportunities out there, you just have to go look for them. The Lantern is very accommodating, I’ve had a great time, I’d recommend you just get yourself to an audition and give it a go.”
The New Writing festival is running every night until Saturday 3rd May, and tickets can be purchased online from upwards of £1.
