Free Playwrighting Workshops for Heywood

A chance to share stories and pick up a pen, these workshops are for anyone:

Age 16+

With a connection to Rochdale

No experience necessary

Each workshop you’ll explore a new part of playwrighting. Guided by an incredible playwright, our group will be a warm, informal space to learn through creative exercises and conversation.

Every other Wednesday, 7-9PM, @ The Old Police Station, 22 Hind Hill St, Heywood OL10 1AQ

 

Get Involved!

Fill out this quick form by midday 15 September and we will let you know if you have a free place in the group by 29 September. 

Any Questions? If you have any questions about the project or would like support applying contact: engage@royalexchange.co.uk or text +447494315213

 

More About the Group

Over 2 terms of 6 bi-weekly workshops we’ll explore writing stories for the stage. Led by brilliant professional playwrights you’ll build your creative voice in a warm, collaborative group; find inspiration in free theatre trips & connect with your local community!

 

When, Where & Meet the Writer

Meet the Playwright: Billie Collins 

A BBC Writersroom Northern Voices graduate, Billie Collins is a writer from the Wirral, currently based in Manchester.

What makes a good story? How do you write for stage? Play. Write. Create. will offer an introduction to playwriting, exploring key areas of craft such as character, structure, and dialogue. A welcoming, supportive space for first-time writers to find their voices, learn more about the theatre industry and build a creative community. 

Term 1: 08/10/2025 – 17/12/2025

  • 7-9PM Wednesday 8 October 2025
  • 7-9PM Wednesday 22 October 2025
  • 7-9PMWednesday 5 November 2025
  • 7-9PM Wednesday 19 November 2025
  • 7-9PM Wednesday 3 December 2025
  • 7-9PM Wednesday 17 December 2025

*** 3 Week Break ***

Term 2: 14/01/2026 -23/03/2026

  • 7-9PMWednesday 14 January 2026
  • 7-9PMWednesday 28 January 2026
  • 7-9PMWednesday 11 February 2026
  • 7-9PM Wednesday 25 February 2026
  • 7-9PM Wednesday 11 March 2026
  • 7-9PM Wednesday 25 March 2026

Celebration & sharing event: 01/04/2026

We’ll come together one final time to celebrate you and our time as a group!

Sign up for a place here!

 

More about Billie Collins 

Billie Collins is a writer from the Wirral, currently based in Manchester.

Their recent work includes THE WALRUS HAS A RIGHT TO ADVENTURE (Liverpool Everyman Theatre 2025), PEAK STUFF (ThickSkin Theatre, UK Tour 2024), SAGA (BBC Radio 4 2023), TOO MUCH WORLD AT ONCE (Box of Tricks Theatre, UK Tour 2023), and episodes of MALORY TOWERS (King Bert Productions for CBBC).

Billie also works as a dramaturg and facilitator and is a BBC Writersroom Northern Voices graduate. They are published by Nick Hern Books.