Pentabus is delighted to announce its first Clive and Sylvia Richards Charity Writer In Residence – Sophie Ellerby.

Sophie Ellerby is a storyteller of many forms; writer, actor, and theatre practitioner. Lit, her debut play is currently in development with HighTide and the Nottingham Playhouse. Other work includes, Three, performed at the Arcola theatre in 2017. Sophie is dedicated to working on projects that challenge social norms, inspire young people and ignite community imagination. Her plays aim to tackle provocative societal questions in an accessible and human way.

During her year with Pentabus, Sophie will work on at least one new play as well as teaching the Young Company Writers Group and taking part in all activities and productions throughout the year.

Sophie is getting ready to make the move from London to Ludlow to begin her year-long residency on September 4.

Sophie Ellerby said: "This is an incredible opportunity! To have been awarded support and faith in me as an artist at this stage in my career means so much. Thank you Pentabus team! I look forward to lots of tea drinking, exploring the community, and listening to their stories. Huge gratitude to Clive and Sylvia Richards for funding this invaluable attachment! I’m packing my many notebooks, pens, and Nike air max; Ludlow better get ready for me! #londongirlinludlow."

Pentabus artistic director Sophie Motley said: "I’m thrilled to have the brilliant Sophie joining the Pentabus family in September. We feel that Sophie’s sense of truth, desire to really research her work, to challenge herself with a year on the farm, and her interest in socially engaged work fits perfectly with our aims as an organisation over the next few years. I’m really looking forward to Sophie starting to get to know Pentabus, meet our young writers and most importantly have the space, time and support to focus on her writing. Thanks again to Clive and Sylvia Richards for having the vision to help us to truly change the lives of emerging artists and give them this opportunity."

Clive and Sylvia Richards Charity said: "All the Trustees of the Clive and Sylvia Richards Charity are delighted with the appointment of Sophie Ellerby on the first ‘Writer in Residence’ sponsored by our charity and we look forward to her upcoming achievements."