Seeking Female Theatre Director - New Writing, London
I am seeking a female theatre director to collaborate on my debut play, Don’t Know U Don’t Know, a new work exploring domestic abuse, coercive control, and how friendship can interrupt dangerous power dynamics.
The project has completed a successful R&D phase, supported by Arts Council England and Danish funding, and developed in consultation with domestic abuse specialists and partner charities. The work is now moving into its next stage of development, with the clear aim of progressing towards a fully realised production and professional presentation in London.
This is not an exploratory or casual collaboration. I am building this project with long-term ambition both artistically and professionally and am looking for a director who sees this as a meaningful opportunity to shape a new play at a pivotal moment in its life.

I am looking for a director who:

Has experience as a theatre director, particularly in developing new writing from early-stage/R&D into its next phase or full production.


Has knowledge, experience, and genuine engagement with the subject matter of domestic abuse, coercive control, and the psychological mechanisms at play.


Is seeking a project that can elevate their career. I am approaching this debut play as a calling card and am looking to collaborate with someone who shares that level of ambition, rigour, and commitment.


Has a strong relationship with text and new writing. A dramaturgical sensibility and willingness to engage with script drafts and development conversations would be a significant asset.


Has an existing network within the London theatre scene, and is interested in helping attach a producer and key creatives (lighting, sound, and set design) as the project moves forward.


Bonus: is highly organised and confident in planning and structuring development processes.


The work has already demonstrated its impact with audiences and industry peers, and the next phase is about assembling the right creative partnership to carry it forward.
If this sounds aligned with your practice or if you know a director who might be a strong fit I would love to connect.
Email: ukrefeld@gmail.com or eightelbowsproductions@gmail.com
You can read more about the play in this article from DASH charity (NOTE for the R&D the title of the play was ‘The Penguin Snare’ it has now changed to ‘don’t know U don’t know’):
https://thedashcharity.org.uk/the-penguin-snare-how-a-new-play-is-opening-up-conversations-about-coercive-control/
Or see interviews from the R&D at Theatre Deli:
https://youtu.be/kWmu7JdAgao