Patch Oliver and Raphail Spartalis Win State Theatre's 2014 Flinders University Young Playwrights Awards

Patch Oliver and Raphail Spartalis are the 2014 winners of the Flinders University Young Playwrights Award, State Theatre Company's major award for the encouragement and support of new writing talent, now in its 15th year.

They have each won $1000 in prize money, a four-play State Theatre Company subscription and a week's script development, allowing them to refine their scripts and receive hands-on experience in working with experienced theatre professionals.

Raphail's play The Natural Selector addresses the issue of overpopulation in the near future, telling a tale where survival for young people is determined by sitting an exam where the grades they obtain determine their potential in society. But what happens when someone tries to change their score?

Patch's play Took is a short collection of monologues from characters who have committed suicide, examining their decisions and the internal repercussions.

State Theatre Company Artistic Associate Nescha Jelk said: "For many winners of the Flinders Young Playwrights Award, it's been the first step on the road to a successful creative career. Both Patch and Raphail are two more exciting voices to add to the playwriting landscape in South Australia."

Patch, 21 and Raphail, 17, have workshopped their winning plays with State Theatre Company's Artistic Associate, Nescha Jelk, allowing them to refine the scripts. The plays will be presented as readings with a professional cast at the Space Theatre, Adelaide Festival Centre on Thursday 29 May. Entry to the readings is via gold coin donation and bookings essential via rsvp@statetheatrecompany.com.au.

The Award is supported by the Company's Education Partner, Flinders University. Head of Acting Flinders University Drama Centre, Rosalba Clemente said: "The Flinders University Young Playwrights Award is one important way in which the Flinders Creative Arts program is supporting South Australia's emerging talent. As Education Partner, we are proud to continue to support and encourage emerging Adelaide creative writers."

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