Here are some words from playwrights, supporters, and reviewers about 17Percent and our showcase She Writes.
“We all know about the magic of theatre. And the fact that a play does not really exist until it enters the performance space. The experience of seeing and hearing one’s work performed by actors with a live audience is the most exhilarating and educative thing that can happen to a playwright. It is a vital part in developing the very real talent that exists in our country. A cursory glance at theatre programmes throughout the UK quickly confirms that women’s writing is still a rare breed. 17% is an important initiative in giving a voice to those currently denied a place in the established theatre.” Sally Whyte (playwright, showcased in She Writes)
“I would never have considered writing a piece for theatre if it were not for 17%. It seemed that writing was not for someone like me. It was so rewarding seeing the actors trying out the material I had written, and I learned so much from seeing how the actors worked. All in all, it has been an excellent learning opportunity – one that does not exist elsewhere.” SM Jenkin (playwright, showcased in She Writes)
“She Writes is a wonderful opportunity for female playwrights like myself to not only have their work showcased in a female-friendly format but also to connect to and be supported by other women playwrights. It is perhaps surprising that in 2013 there is still a need for the work of women to be provided with its own showcase but unfortunately there is. She Writes is, therefore, providing an essential service to women in first of all valuing their contribution to theatre and secondly, bringing that work to an audience.” Lucy Kaufman (playwright, showcased in She Writes)
“The opportunity to showcase my work using professional actors has made a huge difference to my writing. Seeing a script come to life is what it’s all about; without opportunities for women writers to put their work in front of an audience the discipline of writing can become soul-destroying. She Writes opened doors; it’s such a brilliant idea, appreciated not only by writers but also by actors and audiences who rose to the challenge of new original work.” Maggie Drury (playwright, showcased in She Writes)
“She Writes enabled me to see my play in the flesh and watch audience reactions in a safe and supportive environment. It proves that there is interest in, and a market for, plays written by women and that the mainstream theatre world would do well to heed such excellent initiatives.” Elinor Perry-Smith (playwright, showcased in She Writes)
“She Writes really boosted my confidence when they decided to showcase my play ‘Harriet is Hungry’. Although I was unable to attend in person, due to distance, it was fantastic to see the video recording of the performance, and I reworked the piece as a result, and it went on to have a full production at The Lost Theatre. I also find 17Percent‘s blog very useful and informative. It’s good to know that women can group together and help themselves become more visible on stage.” Claire Booker (playwright, showcased at She Writes)
“The Rochester Literature Festival is proud to have 17% relaunching She Writes at Other Worlds, Other Voices. Sam Hall is an inspiration to female writers, and her support and encouragement are greatly valued.” Jaye Nolan, Rochester Literature Festival, October 2013
“Three plays in one, each delightful and mysterious. The pieces are beautifully and intelligently connected by an overarching narrative… This is a very well‐crafted show that cleverly integrates three stand alone short pieces with one talented small cast and a super narrative… An entertaining and thought provoking evening… An enjoyable potluck evening of theatre with a powerful force behind it, 17%‘s She Writes showcases are definitely to be watched.” **** Everything Theatre (On She Writes: What’s behind the door?, 25/9/13 and 5/10/13)
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