HighTide Spring Writers' Retreat (3 days)

Description

Friday 30 March - Sunday 1 April 2012 at Ivy Grange Farm, Suffolk

This spring, HighTide Festival Theatre is hosting a unique writers’ retreat at Ivy Grange Farm in Suffolk with writers being hosted in one of three beautiful yurts. For three days, a group of writers will be encouraged and lead by HighTide Literary Manager, Rob Drummer to explore their writing, through discovery, play, dramaturgical support and the starting of new work.

This three day retreat is intended for playwrights of all experience who have completed at least one full play, are committed to seeing their work through to full professional production and who are keen to truly retreat from their own situations, joining us and fellow writers around a campfire!

Ivy Grange Farm sits in the middle of unspoilt, gently rolling Suffolk countryside on the edge of the village of Westhall, a few miles in from the wonderful seaside towns of Southwold and Walberswick on either side of the Blythe estuary.

The farmhouse, barn and stables date back to the early 17th century and the area has strong historical associations. We like the yurts because they sit quietly in their surroundings, are snug as well as comfortable (with wood-burning stoves and “proper” beds!) and allow you to enjoy the natural environment to the full. They’re fun too and, as keen campers ourselves at HighTide, we’re looking forward to all the best bits of the camping experience – (campfires come top of the list!). So once the sun starts to go down you can sit round the campfire watching the stars come out and enjoy the peace.

By spending three full days on the retreat, there is the opportunity to immerse yourself in your writing without the demands of everyday life. Through a supportive, holistic environment, Rob will encourage openness with your work, enjoying the benefits of a group dynamic and the focus of writing exercises.

Although the retreat will be carefully structured, there is space to build a bespoke engagement and time to discuss in detail the work you bring with you. We will spend the days working in the fully equipped barn at Ivy Grange, as well as exploring the surrounding area. The three days of work will evolve with the needs of the group and on the final day there will be an opportunity to present work to each other in a supportive environment.

For full details of the schedule of activities please see here.

The cost of the HighTide Spring Writers’ Retreat is £350.00 which includes accommodation in one of the yurts (in your own bed but sharing with other writers and including breakfast) and lunch and dinner on the Friday.

Please note that travel is to be booked by the writer separately. HighTide will also provide resources for writing during the three days.

For more information and how to book your place please visit HighTide’s website or contact Philippa, Projects Producer on 0207 566 9765 or philippa@hightide.org.uk