Page to Stage Development Workshop - June 8th, 2025
This unique workshop was requested by our Breakthrough Steering Group, was developed by them, and offers writers, directors and actors the chance to engage in a hands-on day of development.
Terra Nova put out a call for six two-hander scenes of no more than 8-10 minutes to workshop. Over the course of one day, 12 emerging actor participant actors staged these scenes under the guidance of an established director, assisted by two shadow directors, who will provided notes, advice, and multiple options for approaching the material, in structure that mimics a real funded R&D, giving participants meaningful time with our Artistic Director.
Writers gained insight into how their work looks off the page, allowing for deeper refinement and development. Actors benefitted from practical experience, experimenting with new techniques and interpretations in a supportive environment. Directors learned on the hoof.
Participants formed the audience, watching each other's scenes, observing notes, creating a rare opportunity for live observational study, seeing how different perspectives and choices shape a piece of work in real time.
This was a collaborative session focused on growth, exploration, and skill-sharing, designed to benefit all creatives involved.
Where: Accidental Theatre, Shaftsbury Square, Belfast
Fee: The opportunity was provided for free.
Participants: 6 playwrights, 12 actors (6 teams of 2) and 2 shadow directors, for a total of 20 people.
Writers – 6 Spaces Available
What they got:
Live workshopping of your scene by actors
Directional feedback and creative experimentation
Observational learning from all six pieces presented
A chance to discuss your work and ask questions in a safe, creative space
To be considered as a writer we asked emerging artists send us an email with an 8-10 page scene for two people that you would like to see developed on the day, with a 250 word description of the piece and a short bio about your experience as a writer. .
Actors – Up to 12 Spaces Available
What they got:
Great opportunity for practice and development with others at your level of professional experience
One-on-one feedback from an established director, who is actively casting and directing in Northern Ireland and beyond.
The chance to observe and learn from other teams’ creative processes
A collaborative space to refresh your craft and stretch yourself including managed feedback from other actors
To be considered as an actor we asked people to email with their headshot, a two-minute self tape for any acting role they were proud of, and a few sentences about their experience.
Shadow Directors – 2 Spaces Available
What they got:
Access to the directorial process of an experienced director
Observational learning on actor-writer collaboration
A space to ask questions, reflect, and grow your own practice
To be considered as a shadow director we asked people to send us an email with a short bio (250 words) their CV and a few sentences about what they’d like to gain from the workshop.
This workshop was made possible by our Canadian philanthropist. Terra Nova is supported through an £11,000 annual CMAG grant from Belfast City Council.
