Dr Sally M. Brown

Profile

PhD, University of Leeds, School of Performance and Cultural Industries.

My Creative Writing thesis highlights how terminology relating to characterisation perpetuates the adaptation or creation of stereotypical or two-dimensional characters in creative writing. My research posits alternative terminology, successfully applying it to existing characterisation, and demonstrating its use via new work.

 

MA with Distinction in Writing and Linguistics, University of Nottingham.

Linguistics, Fiction Form and Context, Writing Conventions and Techniques, Creative Writing Workshop, and Poetry Form and Context.

 

First Class BA (Hons) in Creative and Professional Writing, University of South Wales

Writing Fiction, Writing for Performance, Short Story, Writing for Children, Writing Media, and Poetry.

 

PhD Abstract 

How can a better understanding of the cultural, social and industry led influences on writing for musical theatre be beneficial when writing a musical book that counters established tropes? How can established adaptation theory be utilised or modified when applied to the distinctive art-form of adapting material to a musical theatre book? This study begins by researching the effects culture, industry and society have on writing for music theatre, with a concentration on female characterisation, both in the present day and historically. Particular focus was given to previous adaptations and productions of The Scarlet Pimpernel, specifically the representation of the central female character, Marguerite Blakeney. The project also explores the emerging field of Musical Theatre Studies, with a focus on Writing for Musical Theatre. The creative component is a new musical book of The Scarlet Pimpernel, which used practice led research to continue to reflect and analyse during the creative process.

Current Roles

Module Leader in Creative Writing and Writing for Children

Postgraduate Research Supervisor

Lecturer in Musical Theatre

Seminar Leader in Media, Creative Work, and Audience Understanding

Guest Lecturer in Theatre, Musical Theatre, and Creative Writing

Other

First soprano with Leeds Festival Chorus and the Nottingham Harmonic

Qualifications

• PhD in Creative Writing, Gender Studies, and Musical Theatre
• MA Writing with Linguistics and Writing for Children
• BA (Hons) Creative and Professional Writing with Writing for Performance and Writing for Children