Hard Times for Georgia

Last year Artistic Development Director of Northern Broadsides Conrad Nelson approached the Squad looking for a writer to join their programme of activities supporting their new version of Hard Times. After considering a range of nominations Northern Broadsides chose North West Squad member Georgia Affonso as their first Associate Young Writer.

She will be working with 20 students aged 16-21 from Calderdale College. Georgia is driving the work, but will be supported by Conrad and writer Debbie McAndrew, who has adapted the novel for the stage.

Conrad says, “Georgia will create a new piece, determined by her work with the students and inspired by the issues raised in Hard Times – namely the importance of culture/art in education. This may result in the educators being re-educated!”

Speaking on behalf of the Squad, Director Steve Dearden commented, “This is another great example of the Squad being the place people come to for exciting and talented new writers. It has been fun talking to Conrad and identifying the right writer for this project and we hope this is just the first collaboration of many with Northern Broadsides.”