Running throughout Black History Month and inspired by our production of Margaret Atwood’s The Penelopiad, this five-week writer development course led by playwright Misha Duncan-Barry invites adults aged 18+ of all writing abilities to explore the art of adaptation and discover how classic stories can be reimagined through new perspectives.

Using The Penelopiad as a starting point, we’ll explore how writers can reclaim, reshape, and re-centre stories by focusing on Black mythological, folkloric, and legendary figures from African and diasporic traditions. Through discussion, writing exercises, and feedback, participants will develop original dramatic work inspired by myths old and new.

The course begins on Saturday 10 October, when we’ll meet for our first session before attending the opening night performance of The Penelopiad together. Over the following weeks, we’ll investigate adaptation as a creative tool, exploring whose voices are heard, whose are forgotten, and how storytelling can challenge established narratives.

COURSE PREPARATION

As part of the course, participants will be asked to arrive at the first session with a Black mythological, folkloric, or legendary figure they would like to explore and develop throughout the programme. This could be a well-known figure or someone whose story has been overlooked, reinterpreted, or marginalised over time.

Examples might include:

• Anansi – the Akan trickster figure and keeper of stories whose tales spread throughout the African diaspora.
• Oshun– the Yoruba orisha associated with rivers, beauty, diplomacy, and survival.
• Memnon– the Ethiopian king from Greek mythology who fought in the Trojan War.
• Moremi Ajasoro– a legendary Yoruba heroine remembered for her courage and sacrifice in protecting her people.

Participants will be encouraged to consider what aspect of their chosen figure’s story they would like to adapt, reframe, or re-centre through their writing.

No previous playwriting experience is required—whether you’re completely new to writing for theatre or looking to develop your existing practice, you’ll be supported to generate and develop new work throughout the course.

For participants who are interested, there will be an opportunity at the end of the programme to share extracts of their work in an informal studio sharing with actors.

COURSE DATES & TIMES (please note booking your place gets you access to all sessions)

• Saturday 10 October – 2pm–5pm (followed by attendance at The Penelopiad)
• Saturdays 17 October – 7 November– 1pm–4pm

SUITABLE FOR

• Adults aged 18+
• Emerging and experienced writers
• Theatre-makers interested in adaptation
• Anyone curious about mythology, storytelling, and dramatic writing
• Writers looking to develop new work in a supportive group environment

Places are limited to ensure all participants have dedicated time for discussion, feedback, and the development of their work throughout the programme.

COST OF COURSE: £75 including a ticket to The Penelopiad capacity 12. If cost is a barrier please contact artistdevelopment@yorktheatreroyal.co.uk to ask about our bursary places.