This programme provided an opportunity for young UK writers to connect with their counterparts in Pakistan, Lebanon and the Palestinian Territories through arts criticism.

The dozen young writers completed a 10 day workshop on arts criticism by a series of established critics in the UK. Later on the six UK participants visited one of the partnered countries, which offered them an opportunity to celebrate the richness of a different culture and to exercise their critical talents.

The Young Critics Programme was also supported by the British Council, the Scottish Arts Council and DCMS.

"It has been an enormous privilege to be included in the programme – both for the range of experiences it offers and the chance to work alongside talented, inspiring young critics and mentors. It has dramatically increased my understanding of the arts in the participating countries, particularly the Palestinian Territories, and allowed me to form friendships I hope will develop as we progress in our careers. It is an excellent initiative that deserves every success, and I hope to be able to contribute to its future development."

Rachel Apsden

Two participants of the Young Critics Programme 2006 won awards for their work. Alex Wood had her first play The Eleventh Capital staged at the Royal Court, and was awarded the George Devine Award for Most Promising Playwright 2007. The Royal Court also commissioned Alex to write another play. Miriam Gamble was awarded the Eric Gregory Award for poets under the age of 30. A leaflet of her poetry was published in 2007 and launched at an event at Foyles bookshop London.

 

Image: Young Critics outside Glasgow School of Art, January 2006 © Aya Kallab

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• lebanon,
• palestine,
• young critics exchange,
• pakistan