Page to Stage

Page to Stage 2026

“Write it…then write it better.”

A Playwrights Group was formed at cornerHOUSE in 2022 with the aim of helping each other improve our writing for the stage.

This is our third showcase of new dramas performed script in hand.

Thanks Nan! by Nadia Shah directed by David Lawson Lean

Master by Clive Martin directed by Gary Langford

Maureen and Doreen by Robbie Moore directed by Violet Danks

Followed by a Q and A with the writers, directors and actors

Be a fly on the wall and see political ambition result in the most daunting ethical dilemmas and expose real faultlines within a family. Watch how power plays out in the dressing room of a struggling circus when it's a place of subterfuge and gangster action. See unexpected revelations as elderly ladies reunite on a northern seaside beach. It's never too late.

Parental guidance advised. Recommended age 14+

Event Details

Doors Open at 7:00PM

Starts at 7:30PM

Ticket price

£10.00 - £12.00

Meet the directors

Violet Danks

The play, Maureen and Doreen, is a positive story which will resonate with all audiences. I felt it was written from a queer perspective, which is what made me want to direct it. What also drew me to this piece is seeing two “older” women be truly themselves - talking about their authentic lives including their sexuality was an incredible thing to read. Often older people are put into a box that keeps them tame. I love that this play breaks those conventions in a fun way where the moments of comedy are balanced out with true meaningful revelations.

Gary Langford

Having recently directed at The Cornerhouse, I was very keen to get back there as it’s such a great space to work in and with. So I was delighted when I was approached by Susannah and asked if I would direct one of the Page 2 Stage plays.

I was particularly pleased to be offered the chance to direct ‘Master’ by Clive Martin. I do enjoy plays that are a little different, a little off beat maybe and I think ‘Master’ falls into that category.

Without giving too much away, it is set in the backstage dressing room of a circus, involving four very different characters with conflicting views on the circus of life.

I’m going to have some fun with this one!

David Lawson Lean

David has a degree in Drama and Theatre Arts and a Post Graduate Certificate in Education, specialising in drama. He considers himself fortunate to have had a successful career doing the three things he enjoys most: theatre, writing and teaching. David previously directed The Diary of Anne Frank at the cornerHOUSE in 2023. He is delighted to be directing Nadia Shah’s Thanks Nan! David was impressed by the witty and satirical writing and the lively vocal and physical dynamics of the script, as well as the opportunity to platform a strong female lead role.