EVENTS

2 London: National Theatre platform performances: actress Diana Rigg, author of No Turn Unstoned, presents her entertaining survey of the most venomous reviews in the history of theatre criticism; in the Lyttelton, RNT, South Bank, SE1; Mon 8, 6pm, pounds 3.50/pounds 2.50.

Barry Humphries talks to Patrick Barlow about his debut novel, Women in the Background; in the Cottesloe, RNT, South Bank, SE1; Fri 12, 6pm, pounds 3.50/pounds 2.50. 0171 928 2252.

Green Ink Writers meet fortnightly to explore and write about the experiences of the London Irish Community; The Hemingford Arms, 158 Hemingford Rd, N1; Thur 11, 8.30pm, free. All welcome. Information: 0171 241 4591

2 Manchester: Manchester poets meet monthly at Withington Methodist Church Hall, Wilmslow Rd, M20; Fri 12, 7.30pm, pounds 3/pounds 2. Bring copies of poems for distribution and discussion. Information: 0161 429 6385.

2 Kirklees: Keith Jafrate leads a regular writers' workshop in Birstall Library, The Market Place; Thur 11, 7-9pm, free. For information on this and other workshops in the area, contact The Word Hoard on 01484 452070.