The Script’s The Thing FAQs
When was the deadline for submissions?
Script submissions closed on 21st March 2025. If you have submitted a script, you will hear from us soon.
Will you include everyone who submits an application?
We have a range of venues and spaces for the Festival and hope to accommodate everyone. Obviously, it’s not an infinite number of spaces so we will have to draw the line at some point. If we have to make a selection, we will select according to who we think will most benefit from the opportunity this year; connection to Dorset; and suitability for the Festival (ie. does the work bring some different to the Festival for this year).
Can I submit more than one script?
No – we are expecting the Festival to be very busy so, to allow as many people to be involved as possible, please only submit one script. Pick your best one! Remember you only have a 15-minute slot and you must take responsibility for presenting the work yourself (Are you bringing actors? What scene(s) will best connect with an audience in this time?) – this may influence the work you decide to submit.
What happens if I don’t get allocated a space for this Festival?
Don’t be deterred – there will be plenty to see and experience at the Festival. Come along and meet us and let’s chat about your work.
What kind of things can I expect to see at the Festival?
In addition to a huge array of 15-minute scripts, there will be talks and workshops featuring playwrights, screenwriters, directors, actors – all with their own views and insights into what makes a great script. Come to the Writers’ Hub and meet venues and organisations who can help support your writing.
Unsure what to write?
You can submit a script on anything but if you’d like the opportunity to stretch your writing muscles, then you might consider writing a script specifically for the Festival.
Or try this exercise to get you started!
Pick three words at random and choose an object which you can see within a five-metre radius from where you are now.
Write a script that includes the words and the object.
Thanks to Pipeline Rapid Response at Lighthouse, Poole for this exercise! You can come to more Pipeline events through 2025 by checking out: https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/ It’s a great way to connect with writers and learn more about the Festival!
Is this a Literature Festival?
No, this is not a literature festival – it’s for scripts and performance. There will be lots of arts and cultural organisations from across Dorset and further afield attending this Festival that can give you insight and support to the craft of writing for performance.
Are you a charity?
Yes – the event is run by Dorchester Arts, a registered charity. Many of the organisations and venues attending the event will be giving their time and expertise for free in the interests of promoting arts and culture across Dorset. We have received some public funding for the event, but we are completely reliant on our teams of volunteers and stewards to make this event happen.
I’d love to help
We’d love that! We need a team of volunteers to help on the day, whether that’s helping to host at one of our venues or work with writers to ensure they have additional support. If you’d like to volunteer, email Sam Wood at enquiries@dorchesterarts.org.uk with the subject line ‘Volunteering at TSTT2’
Will there be food and drink available?
There will be indeed! Several of our venues have food and drink being served throughout the day. In addition, you’ll find plenty of gorgeous cafes around the High Street in Dorchester (special tip: The Horse with the Red Umbrella is always a winner!)
How do I get to the Festival?
Dorchester is well-served with train links from London and Bristol. The Corn Exchange and all the venues are within easy walking distance of the station.
I’m coming from a bit farther away. Where can I stay?
The King’s Arms offers rooms but will no doubt be exceptionally busy, so book early. Alternatively, there are hotels and B&Bs in the area. Discover Dorchester can help you: https://discoverdorchester.co.uk/
Are all the venues accessible?
The Corn Exchange, Shire Hall and Dorset Museum are all accessible and have hearing assistance systems. There is limited access to Tom Browns and King’s Arms for wheelchair users. Please contact us for further information.
I still have a question. What should I do?
Please get in touch: scripts@dorchesterarts.org.uk.
