Writing the r(Age) has been announced, a pioneering new project designed to support writers working across stage, screen, audio and publishing who are navigating the challenges of menopause.
Presented by Sensible Creative in partnership with Sheffield Theatres and Big Imaginations Network, the project launches with an in-person event on Wednesday 25 February at the Tanya Moiseiwitsch Playhouse, located within the Sheffield Crucible Theatre complex.
Writing the r(Age) was initiated by writer Rachel Barnett-Jones after she began experiencing severe brain fog and aphasia during peri-menopause, symptoms which left her fearing her career was over.
“Suddenly not being able to focus or find words, the skill which sits at the very heart of everything I do, made me feel like I’d never be able to work again!” she said.
What began as a small WhatsApp group has grown into a community of more than 30 writers, inspiring the creation of two free resource packs aimed at preventing menopause from driving experienced writers out of the industry.
The packs, supported by the British Association of Performing Arts Medicine, The Society of Authors, the Film and TV Charity and a number of leading UK theatres, offer practical guidance both for writers and for industry professionals.
For writers, the resources include advice on self-compassion, managing fluctuating energy levels and adopting flexible working practices.
For organisations and commissioners, the packs outline practical cognitive accommodations such as written meeting summaries, clear briefs and flexible deadlines to foster more inclusive working environments.
The launch event begins at 2pm with a keynote speech and panel discussion featuring Rachel Barnett-Jones, local theatre maker Imogen Ashby, menopause expert Emma Wee and artist health specialist Lucy Heyman.
A writing workshop follows at 5.15pm, led by Barnett-Jones, exploring creative approaches to writing with menopause-related aphasia and embracing the accidental surrealism it can bring.
Those attending are also invited to see Dry Bits, a one-woman show by Imogen Ashby exploring themes of mid-life and change, which takes place in the Playhouse at 7pm.
Deborah Dickinson, Creative Development Director at Sheffield Theatres, said, “At Sheffield Theatres, we are committed to supporting artists at every stage of their career. Writing the r(Age) is a vital intervention that addresses a significant but often overlooked barrier in the creative industries.”
Barnett-Jones added, “Peri-menopause hits differently for everyone, for me it felt like, overnight, my brain had stopped being my brain. Not only had my ability to form coherent sentences ground to a halt but all the words, structures and stories that had previously been really easy to access, had been replaced with a ball of white-hot rage and anxiety.”
Following the launch, the Writing the r(Age) resource packs will be available to download for free.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
