Work With Me | Neta Gracewell

For all directing enquiries, please email me at neta.gracewell@gmail.com

Dramaturgy & New Writing Development

When it comes to new writing for theatre, many times I am both the Director and the Dramaturg. There is a huge privilege in being the first director that brings a text from page to stage, and I believe that the skills of a dramaturg are crucial in that process. Having worked with multiple writers and supported them in various stages of writing, I've developed a thorough practice that combines three perspectives:

Writing - story, structure and message; Directing - stageability; and Acting - performability. I regularly support writers in developing their plays and scripts, for both theatre and film. Are you writing a play or a script? I'd love to read it and give you dramaturgical notes on narrative and structure, offer prompts for further development and advise on production avenues.

Workshops

I am a trained teacher and facilitator, with vast experience working both with adults and young people, within the professional sector and in education.

Some of the workshops I offer:

Directing Fast - how to bring that play from page to stage with minimal time and budget (perfect for festival runs and rehearsed readings!)
Text Analysis - for actors and directors
Dramaturgy of the Stage - the importance of set design, and how it can elevate your production

Advice & Mentorship

I know what it's like to be a migrant, emerging artist, fresh out of university in the capital of theatre! The opportunities are out there but how do I grab them? Over my years navigating the theatre and film industries in London, I've gained invaluable knowledge of "how things work": How to produce your first show, what theatre is the right one for your play, where to network, how to start your company or file your taxes - my brain (and Google Drive!) is packed with information and advice I am eager to share.

Are you at the beginning of your journey as a theatre maker in London, not sure where to start? Are you a migrant? I'd be happy to meet you, be your soundboard, help you understand your next steps, and support you with advice from my experience.

"Neta is a dynamic and insightful director. I've had the pleasure of collaborating with her on numerous occasions and found her methods inspiring and engaging. I've always felt my ideas and work were in safe hands when Neta brings them to life and shapes them for production. She is skilled at developing new writing."

- EMMA KELLY, WRITER

"Neta is an incredibly passionate director who pours her whole self into everything she creates. She is a generous and inspiring collaborator. Open, experimental, and playful in both her ideas and her process. Working with her is energizing, creative, and deeply rewarding."

- ETHAN CHEEK, SET & COSTUME DESIGNER

"Neta's support in the early stages development of two very different scripts helped me break what those stories were about, eliminate what wasn't essential, and focus on what was. She always brings rigorous preparation and close reading, and a thorough, detailed investigation into story and structure. What makes her approach unique is its simplicity. She'll ask a lot of questions and even better if you don't have all the answers yet."

- THEO HRISTOV, WRITER & ACTOR

"Neta is truly a one-of-a-kind director. I feel extremely fortunate and grateful to have been able to work with her over several years. She is driven and an excellent leader, sticking to her vision while remaining completely fair, open, collaborative and welcoming. She helped me regain some faith in the future of the UK theatre industry, and that’s no small feat!"

- MARIA MAJEWSKA, THEATRE PRODUCER

"Working with Neta is a great pleasure. She collaborates with the creative team and explore possibilities. Fun and effective!"

- CHENG KENG, LIGHTING DESIGNER

"Neta is self-assured, highly intelligent and perceptive in her script interpretation. Her values are pupil centred, and her training and experience equip her to deal with pastoral and behavioural issues carefully and fairly. She promotes high expectations, and her priority is to enable her cast to enjoy creative expression to the full, in a safe and productive environment, by teaching and modelling excellent drama, life and social skills.

- HEAD OF DRAMA, ST AUGUTINE'S PRIORY

"Neta worked as 1st AD on two of my productions and brought immense value to both. Her organisational skills, ability to think on her feet and warmth made her an integral part of the team. I’m looking forward to working with Neta on future projects!"

- MAGGIE RAZAVI, FILM DIRECTOR

"Neta is brilliant. We were so fortunate to work with her on Alright, Alright, Alright. She was enthusiastic, detailed and really understood the needs of the show and how to make it a success. If you're after a talented and experienced director/dramaturg (or both!) I would highly recommend her services."

- ADAM FITZGERALD, WRITER & ACTOR

"Neta oozes dedication, passion and care. She has an incredible attention to detail that is rare and precious. Working with her was a wild, fun, creatively challenging and deeply satisfying ride, and one I would happily queue for again "

- YANIV YAFE, ACTOR

"I met Neta at the perfect time in my life. A moment when I needed a director with a strong vision but an open heart, who was willing to guide you as you try and fail as many times as necessary to build the perfect character. Working with Neta was a fantastic professional achievement."

- MOLLY CASS O'DONNELL, ACTRESS

- MARIA MAJEWSKA, PRODUCER

"Neta joined our short film Torn as 2nd AD. A few days before our shoot, our set designer cancelled unexpectedly. Neta immediately stepped in, handled all the purchases, and supported the additional planning required. On set, Neta is a doer and a true team player. She brings great energy and positivity, which are invaluable on a film set!"

- ADI GORDON, FILM PRODUCER

neta.gracewell@gmail.com

London based.

Let's chat.