Festival premiere for Lisa’s play

A play based on the lives of children living on an Oldham estate is part of this year’s Manchester 24:7 Theatre festival.

“Goldfish”, by Chadderton writer Lisa Whiteside, chronicles the ups and downs of three growing youngsters. Lisa (30) drew inspiration working at a Holts estate youth centre. She based the play in particular on three children who had all experienced different challenges.

She said: “What I realised working there is that sometimes, if you’re a good kid, you don’t get the same perks as other kids might do. They might think that behaving badly can work out better for them and make them mature, so the play addresses that.

Lisa’s short play was selected from hundreds submitted for the Manchester festival, which showcases the best of the region’s up-and-coming talents as well as established writers.

“Goldfish” will be presented at the Elphick Stage in New Century House, Manchester.

Lisa, who recently began a masters degree in writing for performance, has plenty of drama experience, having performed at the Lowry and appeared in programmes such as “Coronation Street” and several TV ads.

Visit www.247theatrefestival.co.uk for tickets and show times.

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