Radio New Zealand is preparing a series of community access drama programmes and believes there are GLBT stories “out there” which might find a place in the series. Producer Wayne Widdowson describes Creative Writing and Community Drama Season 2004 as a project “aimed at giving all New Zealanders the opportunity to write and perform for radio.” Those stories have the potential to be heard by half a million New Zealanders. “We believe there are great NZ stories out there waiting to be told and my role as producer of this season is to point the mic towards them,” he says In doing so Widdowson says he hopes to not only make radio drama more accessible and entertaining to a wider audience, but to build a strong relationship between Radio NZ drama and individuals, groups and organizations within the community. “This season will truly reflect the creativity and imagination of all New Zealanders,” he predicts. Widdowson would like to hear from possible GLBT contributors “regardless of whether you've written before, if you've got a play, short story or poetry piece you'd like to write or are interested in acting, then I'd like to hear from you.” Widdowson can be contacted at Radio NZ on (04) 474 1442 or wwiddowson@radionz.co.nz He has also prepared some questions and answers explaining the series which GayNZ.com reproduces below: Q: What is the Creative Writing and Community Drama Season? A: Radio New Zealand's first ever Creative Writing and Community Drama Season will be broadcast over a 9 month period from January to September 2005. It'll be made up of three distinct seasons during which time a total of 18 plays, short stories and poetry pieces will be broadcast. Each season will premier with its own documentary style show. Q: Who can take part? A: We want the season to truly reflect the creativity, culture and imagination of all New Zealanders. And regardless of whether you've written before, if you've got a story you'd like to write or are interested in acting on radio, then I'd like to hear from you. Q: How can I get involved? A: First decide whether you want to write, act or do both and if you'd like to take part in one of the free workshops. Then contact RNZ drama and we'll send you a support pack that will contain everything you'll need to apply. Alternatively, from the last week in May 2004 you'll be able to register Online at the Radio NZ website or by visiting our Auckland or Wellington offices. Q: Will the season be advertised? A: Yes! Around the first or second week of June 2004 (dates available on RNZ website end of May) the season will be publicized in local and regional newspapers and community publications throughout the country. Stay tuned because we'll be advertising and publicizing the season on national and commercial radio. There will also be posters and pamphlets in local libraries, universities, supermarkets, community centres, independent cinemas and theatres near you. Q: How much time will I have to write? A: We'll be giving everyone plenty of time to write and audition for parts they're interested in. From early June 2004 writers will have 10 – 12 weeks to write. After that auditions will begin and towards the end of September we'll start recording. Q: What can I write about? A: Anything you feel would be interesting. The choice is yours. You can write a play, short story or poetry piece and, as long as it's between 25 – 30 minutes in length, it'll be considered. Ultimately the season is going to involve the creativity and imagination of a wide range of New Zealanders and will include a number of genres, i.e. romance, tragedy, murder, comedy etc. We also hope it reflects stories from a variety of cultural, social and ethnic perspectives. What's important is that your individuality, creativity and imagination come through. Q: What if I can't think of anything to write? A: That's okay! We'll provide you with lots of support and ideas to help get the creative juices flowing if you're feeling a little dried up. Q: If I'm acting where will recording take place? A: Mainly in RNZ studios in Wellington and Auckland, but we will also be looking for plays, short stories and poetry we can record outside the studio on location throughout NZ. Q: What support will I receive? A: If you're writing or have chosen to perform we'll be running creative writing and acting workshops throughout the country. Of course you don't need to do a workshop to write or audition for a play, but if you think they'll give you the confidence and skills needed to start then join up. All writers will receive a support pack that will consist of; material on writing and performing for radio, an introductory letter and registration form and a script template that can be accessed via post or the Internet. RNZ drama will also provide the production facilities to produce the plays selected for the season as well the marketing, media, and internet resources to promote them. Q: Who'll be listening? A: Nearly half a million New Zealanders tune into Radio New Zealand. As well as our core audience we hope the season will attract new listeners. The dramas will also be available on the internet, reaching an audience from the Pacific and around the world. Q: Is there anything else I need to know? A: The season will feature its own soundtrack and theme song performed by a NZ musician or band. We'll also be creating a website to not only showcase and promote the plays but also the writers and performers as well. GayNZ.com / Radio NZ - 27th April 2004