For the second year running, Playing Up North—a course for actors with professional experience or who have trained on an accredited course—is being held in Manchester.
Over five weeks, 12 selected participants will explore a selection of northern plays from Harold Brighouse and Stanley Houghton to contemporary writers including Simon Stephens and Richard Bean.
It will be led by actress Natalie Grady—a nominee for the current Manchester Theatre Awards—with support from Library Theatre Company artistic director Chris Honer. Natalie trained as an actor at Drama Centre London and has gained extensive experience in the business working with acclaimed actors and directors including Samuel West, Chris Honer, Douglas Hodge, Tim Pigott-Smith, Sir Nicholas Hytner, and Meera Syal.
Chris has led the Library Company for more than 20 years, and during that time the Library Theatre has strengthened its reputation as a key producer of contemporary drama and modern classics.
The course will focus on acting skills and through a rehearsal process will analyse the various demands these plays place on the actor. What can be learned from the plays of the past and how do they differ from contemporary Northern plays? How do actors approach different styles of play and make an older play come alive for a modern audience? This explorative process will culminate in an informal performance for an invited audience of industry professionals.
To apply for a place, e-mail Rebecca Jenner on [email protected] with your CV and a brief statement (300 words max) about why you’d benefit from the course by Fri March 29. Successful applicants will be contacted by mid-April.
The fee for the five-day course plus showcase is £160. Attendance is required for all five days plus the showcase day. Saturday Sessions include: May 11, 18, 25 and June 1, 8 at Cornerhouse 10:00 – 17:00. Showcase Evening: Mon June 10. Venue to be confirmed.