A space where new work is shared, voices are heard and stories in development come to life, organised by Four Wheel Drive in collaboration with Theatre@41.
Test Drive Scratch Night is back at Theatre@41 on Thursday 16 July, put on by Four Wheel Drive in collaboration with the venue. It's a night for new work: a space where writers share what they're working on, voices get heard, and stories still in development get their first proper outing in front of an audience. If you're into seeing theatre in its rawest form, this is exactly that.
It's not just for watching, either. The night is open to artists who have a script, an idea, or even just a flash of inspiration they want to get on its feet. If you've got something you're working on, you can present it, meet other people, and get some constructive feedback. If you're a director or an actor looking to start something new, they'll pair you up with a writer. To get involved, email scratch@fourwheeldrivetheatre.co.uk and let them know if you want to share an idea or join the creative pool as a reader, performer, director, or playwright.
This isn't the first time it's run. The first Test Drive Scratch Night was at Friargate Theatre in May 2024, part of the Friargate Creative Hub project with Riding Lights Theatre Company. The second followed in September 2024, when Four Wheel Drive teamed up with Theatre@41 and Junk Drawer Theatre Co. This one continues that thread, with the same open-door approach for anyone in the local arts scene.
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If you're staying on after the scratch, there's a chance to see SELENE, a co-production between York artists Wright & Grainger and Theatre@41, though that needs a separate ticket. The scratch night itself runs on a 'Pay What You Feel' basis, so you pay what you can. It's aimed at the local creative community and anyone interested in the process of making theatre and seeing new stories take shape.
