LONG-standing member of Riverside Drama Company Liz Turner has turned her hand to writing for the group's next production.

The Long Eaton-based group will perform her one-act comedy drama Exit Routes, plus five short comedy sketches, also written by Liz this week.

Exit Routes delves into the world of factory girls: five women working in dead-end jobs rely on each other for support, advice and bit of a laugh in the pub on an evening.

But ultimately there is a choice to be made – which is more important, friendship or the fulfilment of a dream?

Liz, who in the past has performed and directed with Riverside, said: "I started writing some years ago but I decided that a bit more life experience would help."

She had her first story published in a magazine when she was 18 and has also written a children's book and a full-length novel.

But Liz admits her nerves are jangling as her latest work makes the stage.

She said: "I have always wanted to write plays. This will be the first time I have had one performed and it is a completely terrifying prospect.

"I am quite sure I will want to be somewhere else come the first night but I can't because I have a part in it myself."

Despite the pressure, Liz says is already keen to start work on her next play.
"I am desperate to start writing a full-length play but don't have the time right now."

But she is sure that all the hard work will pay off: "I have some fantastic actors taking these parts and I think anyone who comes to see the show will have a lot of laughs."

Liz also intends to get her novel published. "I have two rejection letters, but a friend of mine is rereading it and I still hope to get it published, as it took a long time," she said.

Exit Routes also stars Pat Clarke, Liz O'Hara, Charlotte Lloyd, Donna Chinn and Moya Magee. It will be at the Devonshire Studio, Chatsworth Centre, West Gate, Long Eaton, from Thursday to Saturday at 7.30pm. Tickets are £5 adults (£3.50 concessions) on 07793 765721 or from www.riversidedrama.com.