We’re pleased to welcome Off the Ground Theatre as a resident company at Hope Street, building on a relationship that has already brought its work to our stage.
The partnership creates more opportunities for local artists to develop work and share it with Liverpool audiences. For us, that means more chances to discover a new voice, follow a company’s progress and see a story take its next step.
A partnership with roots
Based in West Kirby, Off the Ground has supported young and emerging artists since 1994. Its programme spans youth theatre, studio productions, new writing and summer touring.
Audiences may remember the company’s production of Wild Swimming at Hope Street in March 2025. This residency builds on that existing relationship.
“our new artistic home”
Dan Meigh, Co-Artistic Director, Off the Ground Theatre
First up: Flying
The partnership’s first autumn new-writing production is Flying, by Merseyside writer and OTG Youth Theatre graduate Charlie Prothero, at Hope Street from 5–7 November 2026.
It’s a Liverpool story about Alan, a life that needs putting back together, and a rather unusual connection with Bella the Liver Bird.
What Happens Next? January 2027
Next comes the new-writing festival, run in partnership by Off the Ground and Hope Street. Writers were invited to submit the opening 20 minutes of an unproduced, unpublished play for a small cast and a studio stage.
Eight pieces will be selected for semi-finals in the week beginning 11 January 2027. From each semi-final, one audience choice and one judges’ choice will go through to the final.
The audience favourite at the final wins a cash prize. The judges’ chosen winner will be developed towards a full professional run at Hope Street in October 2027, subject to the festival’s development deadlines and terms.
Writer submissions have closed. The published deadline was 25 October 2026. Follow Off the Ground for festival programme announcements and audience information: festival information from Off the Ground.
More to come
The residency also includes regular Bardic Desperation improvised D&D shows and a Young Company production planned for April 2027. Keep an eye on our programme as the partnership develops.