Vital Xposure are delighted to announce the launch of the second round of Wellspring, a bespoke professional development programme for London-based disabled, d/Deaf and Neurodivergent playwrights and script writers, supported by City Bridge Trust.

Through a series of training sessions led by renowned disabled writers, playwrights and directors, as well as theatre venues' professionals and peers, and mentoring support, Wellspring will provide eight participants with tools and skills to build confidence and foster connections with UK's theatre sector, in a safe and supportive environment.

"I have really enjoyed my time with Wellspring, as I feel now that my writing is enhanced by my autistic experience rather than limited by it." - Paula Brett, Wellspring Writer 2021-2022

"Wellspring has taught me to honour my needs, and has given me to confidence not to fit in, but to assert myself." - Nicole Latchana, Wellspring Writer 2021 - 2022

Participants will take part in a training course of creative writing; covering character, plot devices and development, tools of inspiration, language and other technical skills essential to writing a script, alongside sessions with theatre industry professionals. The workshops will run from May to July 2023, followed by a script development period with mentoring support (September - November 2023) and culminating to an industry showcase event with rehearsed readings from these scripts (January 2024).

The programme will be delivered in partnership with Paines Plough, Bush Theatre, Soho Theatre and Theatre503.

Applications close on Thursday 6 April 2023 at 12 midday.

Visit our website to find out more about Wellspring 2023-24 and for information on how to apply: http://www.vitalxposure.co.uk/wellspring23 - www.vitalxposure.co.uk/wellspring23