Ever wanted to create theatre? Now’s your chance.

In One Act is a rare opportunity to hone your playwriting skills under the guidance of professional writers. In this intense writing program, budding playwrights develop their ideas with other participants, and ultimately have professional actors perform their work. In One Act alumni have seen their work performed at Melbourne Writers' Theatre productions and Midsumma Festival – who knows where this free program could take you!

"In One Act changed my life," said Anna Gould, who took part in 2018's program.

"I had wanted to write a script for decades but didn’t think I could. I now have a finished product which I can present to the community and am fulfilling a lifelong dream of seeing my words performed on stage," Anna said.

Anna worked with Elizabeth Walley and Clare Mendes - experienced playwrights from  Melbourne Writers' Theatre - to develop her play Lobster Season. It has since been performed at Carlton's La Mama Courthouse, the 2018 Melbourne Fringe Festival, and was even selected for this year's Midsumma Festival.

"Elizabeth and Clare were great mentors who took the time to get to know each of us. When Elizabeth said after the first session that we had to go away and write a 10-minute play I nearly dropped out! But the group was so supportive and I was able to explore my ideas through dialogue," Anna said.

The program begins with an introductory workshop for participants to get to know each other. Participants work collaboratively on a short piece before breaking out to work on their own drafts. Actors from Melbourne Writers’ Theatre are then invited to perform the participants’ scripts and provide feedback in preparation for two nights of performance readings. 

"Seeing my work performed by Melbourne Writers’ Theatre actors was incredible. The skill and dedication of the actors really brought our works to life. Hearing our words read aloud also helped us to refine the dialogue. It was an amazing opportunity," said Anna.

Lobster Season is part of Queer Quickies at Theatre Works for Midsumma.

Visit the Theatreworks website for tickets and more information.