The Putney Playwrights is a group for members of Putney Theatre Company who are established or budding playwrights. The group has a Co-ordinator, Geoff Saunders, but is run by its membership as far as possible; we are still experimenting with ways the group, and the monthly meetings we hold, can be the most effective and enjoyable. 

At the moment (April 2025) we are working towards WAF@PAT, in which the group has two ‘slots’ to use for showcasing work. The pattern we have adopted (experimentally) is: writers bring pieces they are working on to the monthly meetings, and the resident company of actors (‘The Putney Playwrights’ Repertory Players’) read, workshop and perform them; a review session follows in which writers and actors alike say what they liked about the pieces and give any suggestions they may have for developments. In between the meetings, informal, self-determining smaller groups meet  in person or online and share their scripts, give notes and support and help each other get ready for the next session at the theatre. So far this way of working is going well and any teething troubles have been minor.

At the moment, with WAF@PAT being the focus for the group, the doors are closed to new members, but later in the year we will start work on new projects and new writers (and indeed new actors) will be invited to join. There are no fees: all you need to be is a PTC member and to be keen to share your writing ideas and expertise and experience with the rest of the group. It’s important to remember that even first time writers have a lot to give – keenness, openness, a passion for theatre and storytelling – and experienced writers love to learn and develop. The group is supportive and positive and everyone’s contribution is celebrated.

Keep an eye out for the group’s ‘First Look’ show in WAF@PAT! And if you’re interested in joining the group as an actor or writer later in the year, please email ptcnewwriting@gmail.com