A while ago I wrote a post about identity and ‘coming out’ as a writer – of confidently owning the label. I think the universe is telling me it is OK to feel confident because, as a writer, things are going really well. I am thrilled to have several exciting projects on the go at the moment with more in the pipeline.
Hive North
I am honoured and grateful to announce that my play ‘Kray to Crone’, after a short-listing process involving over 150 scripts, has been chosen to be in the final 10 scripts to be showcased by Hive North Theatre Company.
A professional cast will perform the ten plays chosen at the Lowry Theatre Salford Quays, Manchester 14th and 15th July 2023. Tickets are available at this link.
The showcase is an important platform for LGBTQ+ voices and the selection ‘covers a multifaceted portrayal of the LGBTQ+ experience’. My play is in absolutely astounding company – Rav Bansal, KT Miles, Mitesh Soni, Izzy Campbell, Saskia Pay, Connor Cooper, Roo Pilkington , Rian Craske , and Luke Elliot. I feel thrilled to be among such an awesomely talented group. I can’t wait to see the production.
Scarborough Love Stories
Arcade Arts, a charitable community producing company, was commissioned by Scarborough Borough Council to create a piece of work celebrating the beautiful South Cliff Gardens. Arcade has worked with local communities gathering true love stories inspired by the gardens. They had over 100 submissions. The production draws together the stories into five chapters told by storytellers and an ensemble cast, accompanied by orchestral music created by Orchestras Live and Sinfonia Viva. I am one of the story writers and tellers. Rehearsals are going strong at the time of writing this blog and it is clear the digital audio trail is going to be utterly magical. The final recording will be available as a digital stream to experience in the Gardens from 24th July and will run to the end of August.
Book Launch for ‘Everyday Wendy’
Are we still blaming the pandemic for stuff? I think we are. The book launch for my novel ‘Everyday Wendy’ didn’t happen because the pandemic threw everything into chaos for such a long time that book launches, in all honesty, were not a priority. My book is selling well despite that but Pen to Print recently contacted me and suggested we go ahead with an official launch. Why not! So, it will be an online event and if anyone wants to be sent a link, please get in touch. I would love for you to be there! Jacqueline Gabbitas, wonderful author and poet will chair the event that Pen to Print will host. The on-line launch for “Everyday Wendy’ will be on 13th July 2023.
Finally.. for now at least…
I am being interviewed by the rather marvellous, multi-talented Wolfy O’Hare for radio in a few days, which will be fun. I will post the date for that to be broadcast as soon as I have it.
LF Meleyal 