TheatreCloud Launches OF MICE AND MEN Writing Competition

Public readings by the cast of John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men will be awarded to the most creative submissions, with up to £600 for the top three. 'The Loneliness Project' launches on Burns Night on 25 January, held in honour of Robert Burns' legacy.

John Steinbeck took the title of Of Mice and Men from the Robert Burns poem 'To A Mouse'. Burns suggests we are all at the mercy of random events and the differences that make us who we are. Whether we are small, tall, male, female, young or old, we have little or no control over our lives. Steinbeck's story stays true to the same themes, with a strong moral message about people who experience loneliness or vulnerability.

In an age where we're increasingly connected through social media and technology, what do people have to say about loneliness now? The Loneliness Project launches today and concludes on 14 May 2016, when a panel of judges will determine the winning submissions.

Matthew Gale, producer of Of Mice and Men for Touring Consortium Theatre Company, says he hopes the project will reach people in all walks of life and of any age: "Loneliness is such an important part in understanding Steinbeck's characters, many of who were based on real people. We've launched this competition alongside the production for everyone who is able to share their thoughts and feelings about this issue."

Everybody that enters will receive a £10 ticket offer to see Of Mice and Men performed at their nearest participating theatre. Of Mice and Men is a co-production between the Touring Consortium Theatre Company and Birmingham Repertory Theatre.

Final deadline for submissions to The Loneliness Project is 14 May 2016.