A NEWPORT writer has signed a deal which will see his work published for performance across the world.

Playwright Phil Mansell has been signed to Silvermoon Publishing, which specialises in providing plays for hundreds of dramatic companies, mainly in the UK, America and Australia.

His first play to go into print will be According to Claudia, which launches the new season by Newport Playgoers at the 400-seat Dolman Theatre in September.

Mr Mansell, who worked as a press officer at Newport University until ill health forced him to take early retirement, said he was pleased to have finally found someone to publish his work.

He said: “I’ve been writing plays for many years and Silvermoon Publishing want to create a catalogue of my work which they will promote to potential performers, including over a thousand contacts they have who are looking for plays.

“Very few authors make a fortune from their plays but I will have the satisfaction of knowing that there’s a good chance my work will be staged, not only in this country but across the world.”

As well as According to Claudia, Mr Mansell has several plays lined up for his new publisher, including Poor Yorick and Bunkered – both of which won one-act play competitions and were staged at the Dolman Theatre.

He has recently completed two plays, one of which is about the ghost of John Lennon striking up an unlikely relationship with a retired quantity surveyor.

People will have a chance to get a taste of his writing when According to Claudia, about the sexy secrets and surprises revealed at a family reunion, runs at the Dolman Theatre from September 10 to 13, from 7.15pm.

To book tickets, call the box office on 01633 263670 or visit dolmantheatre.co.uk