Lagos based playwright, Kenneth Uphopho offers support to anyone interested in learning how to write a play. 

This dialogue based workshop will reveal itself as the medium by which a character comes alive. Discussion and conversation will be a key element of this workshop. You will learn about dramaturgical techniques crucial to writing and performing a play such as ‘Esther’s Revenge’.  

This is a rare opportunity to take part in a free interactive and inspiring workshop where you will learn more about how playwright Kenneth Uphopho created Esther’s Revenge, based on a true story which occurred in 1950s Nigeria, which delves into themes of colonisation and societal injustices. 

Just after a life performance of ‘Esther’s Revenge’ on the 18th June, this workshop will offer anyone interested in a ‘behind the scenes’ look at how the production came into being. 

Audience members from the performance (the night before) are invited as well as emerging play writers from Leeds and beyond who would like to know how and why Kenneth put pen to paper, and produced this thought provoking performance.

Art Theologian, Bronagh Daly joins Kenneth after lunch to deliver a session that juxtaposes the Book of Esther, an ancient sacred Jewish text, with the 1960s scenario that Esther encounters. Bronagh will support a ‘write like a theologian’ session inspired by Kenneth’s writing.  The aim of this unique workshop is to support the next generation of learners, writers, artists and activists promoting a level playing field to empower dialogue on hard to talk about social injustices as an expression of a ‘sign of the times’.

Programme:

11:00am Arrival, refreshments and welcome

11:10am Playwright workshop and advice session

12:30pm Networking lunch provided by Leeds Church Institute

1:00pm Exploring the connections between ‘Esther’s Revenge’ and the Book of Esther

2:00pm Close

Learn. Write. Share.

Get hands-on guidance in a space built for reflection

 Connect with writers and creatives shaping Leeds’ literary scene

Limited spaces. Secure your spot now, see Tickets below.