Free poetry workshop for young artists aged 18 - 30. 

What to expect 

We will take a short walk over to Whitworth Park. We will offer different writing exercises and techniques to try in response to the birds we can see around us. There will be the option to write collaboratively with others if you would like. We will be exploring birds as symbols of freedom, community and international connection. There will be the option to add your favorite word, line, or verse, from the workshop to a collective poem. This collective poem will then be shared with young artists in Beirut, Lebanon where we are running the same workshop. You will receive their collective poem in exchange. 

Whose it for 

These workshops offer a supportive environment for seasoned poets, secret writers and anyone that just wants to have a go. It's a chance for us to share ideas and write together in a supportive space. No prior experience necessary.

This workshop is free of charge but places are limited so please reserve a ticket. 

Sign up here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScpZyCgQqQLkHTOXZw9RrmT3r_XDQ9lehWopFL8GjQi7p0zRQ/viewform?usp=publish-editor

All materials will be provided as well as drinks and snacks. You will be asked about allergies and dietary requirements when you book onto the workshop. Travel reimbursements are available. Please feel free to share your access needs when signing up. Contact us on allaboutthebirdsplay@gmail.com if you have any questions.

This workshop is offered as part of ‘All about the Birds’ a new play being supported by Contact Theatre, Bloomsbury Festival and Arts Council England. 

A car pulls up in Mount Lebanon, another stops on the outskirts of Manchester. 

Zed and Jad are at a loss and don't know where to go, and so they begin to drive. 

They pick up people along the road, pass through village pubs, checkpoints, free parties, and abandoned buildings. Embarking on parallel road trips through the UK and Lebanon they drive until dawn. 

All about the Birds is a poetic and poignant exploration of what freedom can mean.

Co-written by Maddie Wakeling and Nassim Al-Banna, created with Georgina Wheelehan, Fernando Solis and Mehdi Zion. Produced by Amy Sze.