Off The Page is six month program for script writers. Over the program, we develop the scripts through dramaturgical practices, leading to a Scratch performance. 

This is program is ran by criticism editor, producer and playwright, Darcey Youngman, with guest support with various creatives working in the industry. 

Off The Page runs every six months, with a performance at the end of the program. 

Our first workshop 'The Beginning' is on 21st February 1-4pm 2026. This workshop is open to all Seamus Heaney Centre students, and will be led by Darcey Youngman. Using methods and exercises, taught by professional dramaturg, and previous fellow Hanna Slättne. This workship will set expectations, probe questions for the writers and help set goals and aim for what the writers want out of the scratch. 

From there, we will actively engage with the writers every month, offering various workshops, one-to-ones, and set rehearsals with professional actors. 

All this will lead up to a performance of your piece, a 'Scratch Sunday.' This is where you show off how your words have come off the page to your friends, family, staff and peers. 

What we are looking for.... 

A ten page extract/ scene of a script. It can be for radio, film, tv or theatre. 

Available for the occasional Saturday workshop or rehearsal.

A willingness to develop and workshop your writing. 

Working collaboratively with a professional dramaturg, directors and actors. 

Developing the script for performance, and receive feedback from the audience.