This month sees the launch of Stage Talk, the first show on TV dedicated to amateur and community theatre.

It’s a sign of great confidence in grassroots theatre in the UK that a dedicated programme should appear just as many professional theatre companies are reeling from the shock of Arts Council cuts. ‘Am Dram’ has so often been denigrated or patronised that it’s heartening to see evidence that more and more people are turning to their local theatre group simply to put on a good show.

Whatever your theatrical tastes or instincts, we urge you to take a look at Stage Talk. It broadcasts monthly, on the first Sunday of the month, on Sky Channel 201/FreeSat 403, or you can catch up on the entire programme on the Stage Talk website. And if you’re actively involved in amateur drama, there are plenty of opportunities for you to contribute – including a ‘Show Tube’ section where you can promote your own production.

As a taster, here’s a clip of the regular Meet the Playwright section, sponsored by Nick Hern Books. This first episode featured an insightful interview with playwright Amanda Whittington, whose plays including Be My Baby, Ladies Down Under and Ladies Day have received more than 50 amateur productions in the past year.

Stage Talk TV: Episode One – ‘Meet The Playwright’ with Amanda Whittington

For more information on the full range of NHB plays available for amateur performance download your copy of our latest Guide to Plays for Performance here.

Be My Baby by Amanda Whittington

Amanda Whittington’s poignant and heart-warming drama – Be My Baby – set in 1960s Britain is currently playing at the Derby Theatre (as part of Derby LIVE) to 21st May. Click here for more information and to purchase tickets – ‘beautifully crafted drama… there’s not a word wasted’ Mark Shenton, Stage.