Get your act together for a theatre contest

PLOTFEST . . . at the Lyceum

OLDHAM amateur theatre company the Lyceum Players is marking its 90th birthday in a decidedly theatrical way - by launching a playwriting competition.

The Lyceum's PlotFest is a one-act playwriting competition with cash prizes and productions for the best three plays.

Writers - over 18s only - have until December 31 to submit works up to 30 minutes long, with up to five characters.

The theatre company, based in lower-ground surroundings at Oldham's magnificent Lyceum building in Union Street, reaches its 90th year of operations next year and will start the party rolling with a "plotfest" on July 13 and 14. The winning writers will receive cash prizes of £250 (1st), £125 and £75 respectively.

The three judges are well known to audiences at the Lyceum and other local amateur companies: actress and director Maggie Blaszczok, Lyceum co-artistic director Pauline Walsh and actor Dominic Peberdy.

Maggie says she is looking for plays that will "surprise, challenge and entertain".

"This type of event helps to keep the theatre alive, vibrant and forward-looking. It encourages experienced writers and helps develop new talent. I'm delighted and excited to be involved."

Information, aims and rules for the contest can be found on the company's website at www.lyceum.org.uk.