Have your say on a play for tomorrow

The Dukes Kick Start initiative, which begins this April, allows audiences to offer feedback on plays in development.

I Was A Wife is a work in progress by first time writer Polly Lister an actress who appeared as the witch in The Dukes’ outdoor production of Hansel & Gretel last summer.

While The Connection is a modern-day take on Brief Encounter set at Carnforth Station, where the classic film was shot 70 years ago. It’s the work of Ulverston-based writer Zosia Wand who adapted Hansel & Gretel and had her first play – Quicksand – staged at The Dukes in 2011.

“Original work is central to what we are about,” said Joe Sumsion, artistic director of The Dukes, which is Lancashire’s only professional producing theatre.

“We are inviting our audiences to come in and look at the development process we usually go through internally. Their opinions could help us to decide what to do next with each play.”

“One of the things writers have to deal with is feedback,” said Joe. “All opinions will be considered and then I will help the writer decide what to do next.”

Depending on funding being available, it’s hoped that one of the plays could be staged at The Dukes possibly as early as next spring.

Kick Start takes place in The Round and all tickets priced £5/£4 concessions include free tea and coffee. For more details or to book, ring The Dukes box office on 01524 598500 or visit www.dukes-lancaster.org