Natasha Brotherdale Smith and Jessica Millward

Natasha Brotherdale Smith (Writer) and Jessica Millward (Director) are northern, queer and neurodivergent theatre makers. They previously worked together on I Can’t Hear You, which was long listed for Women’s Prize for Playwriting 2021, premiered at Theatre503 in July 2022 and was nominated for a Standing Ovation Award.  

Natasha’s highly acclaimed debut was Butterflies (VAULT Festival, Theatre503, Edinburgh Fringe) was her highly acclaimed debut. She was shortlisted for the Channel 4, 4Stories Scheme. Natasha was commissioned to write When It Rains (Edinburgh Fringe 2023), working with the play’s young cast to develop a piece of work reflective of young men’s experiences.

Jessica’s directing includes: Fritz & Matlock, The Pleasance Downstairs (OFFIE nominated), Good Gracious, Good Friday at The White Bear Theatre and associate director on Operation Crucible (Sheffield Crucible). 

During their residency at artsdepot,they began developing Stuck, a dark comedy exploring women’s safety. The play follows two female housemates as they navigate their lives while a predator is confined to their upstairs bathroom. They were interested in examining the transformation of a seemingly safe domestic space into a place of terror and the unsettling connections between the two parties.

Find the Artists on Twitter :

Natasha Brotherdale Smith’s: @tasha_eve97

Jessica Millward’s:@jesskmillward