We are Here to Write Commissions: Reflections From the Writers

Our latest We are Here to Write commissions supported 2 Artists from our writers group with the development of new work. The offer for each artist was tailored to their individual needs, because as writers with different methods and goals it was important to be responsive to their varied ways of working. For example, they both wanted deadlines and feedback but this was delivered in ways that most suited their process. 

Starting with just an idea, the artists investigated and explored their work over the course of 9 months where they received a fee and in-kind support to progress it from an idea to something more. Hear from the artists themselves below!

Tell us about yourself and the work you are drawn to creating.

Robert Furey: I’m a writer and director from Bristol and I’m drawn to making work that explores the intersection between race and gender and plays with form in exciting and unique ways.

Mei Leng Yew: I’m a playwright who is drawn to magical realism, female-led stories and finding joy in dark places. My work is character-driven and centres the BESEA experience.

Can you briefly describe the play you developed through the commission?

Robert Furey: My play is called A Looner and it’s about a Windrush Generation Jamaican immigrant who settles in Bristol and has an all-consuming sexual fetish for party balloons.

Mei Leng Yew: Beepocalypse is a play told through the perspective of the world’s most important insect - the wild bee. When a group of wild bees wake up to find a honeybee hive has moved into their urban garden overnight, they must decide whether their new neighbours are friend or foe.