Phoebe Waller-Bridge, the acclaimed creator, writer, and actress behind the series "Fleabag," is launching a new initiative to support emerging playwrights. Through her "Writers' Block" program, Waller-Bridge has purchased and donated a flat in London, offering it rent-free to writers early in their careers who come from underprivileged backgrounds and struggle with the city's high cost of living. The resident will only be responsible for utility bills.
This initiative addresses a significant barrier for aspiring writers. Jack Thorne, co-creator of "Adolescence" and writer for films like "Wonder" and "Enola Holmes," highlighted the financial struggles many face, noting that the need for basic survival often makes writing impossible. Thorne, who himself benefited from living with his brother for five years while starting out, is also providing financial backing to the "Writers' Block" scheme. He emphasized that "If we want stories told about our complicated world, we need writers of every background writing them."
Other notable figures from the arts and entertainment industry have also contributed to the program. Playwright and screenwriter James Graham, known for works such as "Ink" and "Dear England," along with "Happy Valley" creator Sally Wainwright and "The Crown" writer Peter Morgan, are among the backers. Martin McDonagh, Waller-Bridge's partner and director behind films like "The Banshees of Inisherin" and "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri," is also involved.
Graham pointed out that the scheme tackles class barriers within the industry, which he described as a significant area of under-representation. He recalled his own early struggles in London, sleeping on friends' floors and working odd jobs while pursuing his writing. "Every spare room a scheme like this can give to writers starting out in London, not only helps them write but saves them from giving up completely," Graham stated.
The "Writers' Block" initiative evolved from the Adopt a Playwright Award, founded in 2008. This existing program provides affordable accommodation to writers from disadvantaged backgrounds needing to be in London for career opportunities, meetings, rehearsals, and performances. Both programs were established by Sofie Mason and Diana Jervis-Read.