Factory International

Callout: New Writers

Got an idea for a folk horror story? We’re looking for flash fiction submissions inspired by our new show Robin/Red/Breast

A forest in winter

The opportunity

To celebrate Robin/Red/Breast, a new play by Maxine Peake, Sarah Frankcom and Imogen Knight (co-founders of Music, Art, Activism and Theatre) premiering at Aviva Studios this Spring, we’re inviting writers to respond to some of the themes of this cult horror classic.

Based on John Bowen’s cult TV play which was first broadcast in 1970, this chilling retelling looks at themes of isolation, paganism and bodily autonomy in the English countryside.

This is an opportunity for writers based in the North with less than three published pieces/stories to their name.

The prompt

You arrive in a village, alone. Something is not quite right... you begin to suspect the villagers are spying on you. Overnight, someone has taken your laptop and phone – breaking and entering silently, without leaving a trace. This morning, there is a knock at the door. What happens next? 

How to pitch

Send 100 words on your idea responding to the prompt and a couple of examples of your writing to editorial@factoryinternational.org by 16 February. We want to encourage new and emerging writers so don’t worry – your examples don’t have to be published!

In your pitch, think about:

  • Your character and their history – why might they be alone in the village? How do you think they would feel?
  • The setting – where is the village? Is it familiar to your character or completely new territory to them?
  • How you will develop their story – what happens next?
  • How you will wrap up the plot – do you want to leave it on a cliffhanger or bring the story to the conclusion?

We will contact those with successful pitches for a full commission of 800-1,000 words.

Please note the pitching window is now closed. We will be in touch soon if your pitch has been successful.

Who can pitch?

We are looking to support and platform emerging talent. This is an opportunity for writers based in the North of England with less than three published articles/stories. If you have any questions about your eligibility, please contact editorial@factoryinternational.org

What you'll get

  • £250 fee for writing your commission
  • Support from our editorial team
  • Publication on Factory+ - Factory International’s online content platform
  • An opportunity to read your work at an event at Aviva Studios

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