Hampstead Theatre announces three new Downstairs productions

Edward Hall has announced three new productions for Hampstead Downstairs, as well as the candidates for the theatre's Inspire: The Next Playwright programme.

In January, Chelsea Walker (Wild) will direct Yous Two (31 January to 24 February). Georgia Christou's debut full-length play is about fifteen year-old Billie and the conflict between personal aspiration and familial responsibility.

This is followed by Amy Ng's Acceptance (14 March to 7 April). Ng was named on the BBC New Talent Hotlist for new writers this year and is currently on attachment with Yellow Earth and the BBC's Drama Room. Directed by Anna Ledwich (Four Minutes Twelve Seconds), Acceptance tells of a talented young musician, an Ivy League school and a life-changing allegation.

Ella Road's The Phlebotomist runs from 25 April to 19 May and takes place in a world where one's genetic profile is as important as their bank balance. Road is part of the Soho Theatre Young Company and is currently under commission from Theatre Royal Plymouth.

Also announced are the four candidates for Hampstead Theatre’s Inspire: The Next Playwright programme. The initiative provides 18 to 25 year-old playwrights a year-long mentorship with Roy Williams. After receiving over 400 applications, the successful applicants are Destinée Bishop, Geraldine Lang, Eno Mfon and Holly Robinson.

Williams said: "If their energy and enthusiasm towards creating fresh, challenging and entertaining theatre is anything to go by, the future of playwriting looks very bright indeed – but this is only as long as we keep investing, protecting and supporting the voices of tomorrow."