John Donnelly

Biography: John Donnelly is a playwright. He works in theatre and more recently, television and film. His plays include The Pass and Bone (both Royal Court Theatre), The Knowledge (Bush Theatre), and a version of The Seagull by Anton Chekhov for Headlong Theatre. His writing for television includes Henry (a short film for Channel 4’s Coming Up strand), work on the second series of Dennis Kelly’s Utopia (also Channel 4) and an episode of Glue, an E4 series conceived by Jack Thorne. He is a past winner of the Tom Erhardt award, and his play The Knowledge was Time Out London’s best play of 2011. Other writing includes Burning Bird (Synergy/ Unicorn Theatre), Songs of Grace and Redemption (Theatre 503) and Conversation #1 (V&A Museum/Latitude Festival/The Factory) John has worked extensively in education — primary, secondary and further. He ran workshops and managed projects in London, Kent and Essex for Creative Partnerships for seven years. These included projects aimed at curriculum development and engagement, pupil voice, literacy, and supporting staff professional development. John has also worked with Irish and Romany travellers and led courses on sex education and addictions. From 2007 to 2013, John ran the theatre arm of the MA in writing for the stage and broadcast media at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. His plays are published by Faber and Samuel French.