29/05/2026
What makes a story work in theatre? In this panel, Janet Brown and Sandy Fairthorne discuss with Nikki Watson the craft of writing for live performance, sharing insights into dialogue, character, structure and the collaborative process that brings a script to life on stage.
🎭 Janet Brown
Based on a farm in the Surf Coast hinterland, Janet is an internationally acclaimed, award-winning writer whose powerful work spans theatre, fiction, and non-fiction. Deeply rooted in lived experience, her plays and books, including The Hope Song and The Shaded Side, shine a light on personal mental health journeys, resilience, and remarkable lives.
🎬 Sandy Fairthorne
As the visionary founder and artistic director of Suckerpunch Theatre, Sandy has been a powerhouse force in the performing arts since 2007. Working as a director, playwright, and producer, she is known for her bold, evocative stage productions that dive deep into the complexities of family dynamics, relationships, and the beautiful frailties of the human condition.
🎤 Nikki Watson (Moderator)
A passionate advocate for community and accessible arts, Nikki has spent over 20 years shaping the local theatre scene with . From her local roots to her global experience producing international tours with Geelong's , Nikki brings a wealth of knowledge, creative collaboration, and a deep love for inclusive storytelling to our panel.
Limited places for this session are still available: https://surfcoastwritersfestival.com.au/playwrights-panel-2026
