My experience: Jennie Coles

You can say a surprising amount with one hundred words, through action on stage. This was my discovery when, on August 30th 2006 I joined Natasha Betteridge and Oliver Williams for a workshop at the Soho Theatre.

At nine am, all six writers made a list of a hundred words – the first that came to mind. We all came up with a different array of vocabulary, which revealed something unique about each writer’s thoughts at that particular time. Those words kick-started a process of speedy scripts, riffed out and performed to the group. I began to get a feel for the succinct style needed to express a theatrical moment with a limited number of words.

At twelve o’clock, the group wound down to focus on their individual plays. One hour went quickly, each of us intent on completing a script. You have to make snap decisions, go with instinct, and be sure of your intention when you only have a hundred words with which to evoke a moment.

The scripts were rehearsed in the afternoon by talented young actors from the National Youth Theatre. With half an hour per play, the work was intense and exhilarating. I had the opportunity to see my script being broken down and built up on stage with director Oliver Williams and actors Rebecca Whitehead, Sally Crawshaw, Aman Rakkar and Ben Tovey.

The highlight of the day for me was the moment when something seemed to click in rehearsal, when the play took shape and everyone involved was on the same wavelength.

The performance that evening was impressive. The actors brought ten mini plays to life without a hitch, before a full house in the Studio. The audience was engaged and the writers relieved to have their work in such capable hands.

One hundred words was an exhilarating challenge. Above all, I met some wonderful writers, directors and actors, some of whom I hope to have the chance to work with again.