Both the writers were nurtured at Live’s monthly New Writing Studio Sessions, which were launched a year ago to unearth and champion the best in new writing talent from the region and beyond.

Gez Casey, from the new writing department, said: “We’re committed to helping people achieve their writing ambitions by offering support and advice to writers of all abilities – from first-time writers to successful playwrights.

“The sessions are a great way of doing this by providing a platform for writers to test the water with new material and get constructive feedback direct from audience members.”

The second of the summer’s double-bills can be seen in the Studio Theatre on Thursday, July 2, with rehearsed readings of Paddy Campbell’s dark comedy, Dial-A-Mate, and the poignant atmospheric new drama Islanders – set on a bird reserve on The Farne Islands – by Dick Curran from Whitley Bay.

The New Writing Studio Sessions take place on the first Thursday of every month. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.live.org.uk or call (0191) 232 1232.

And next Thursday Live is offering theatre-goers a chance to meet the stars and creative team behind its current production, Looking for Buddy.

The contemporary jazz musical, which runs until June 13, is written by Jarrow-born Alan Plater and stars Tim Healy.

Both will attend the special event, The Making of Looking for Buddy, hosted by Live’s artistic director Max Roberts, which will begin post-show at 9.30pm and last 30-45 minutes.

Members of the public can meet other cast members and director Mark Babych, and hear the group talk about the process of writing, staging and performing the show. To book tickets, call the number above.