Playwriting competitions can be fantastic stepping stones for students that have dreams of entering the theatre industry. These competitions offer a plethora of benefits that go far beyond just winning a prize. There are so many schemes, programmes and prizes run by venues and theatre companies across the UK, so look into what is going on in your local area (and nationally) to see what your talented students can apply to.
A learning curve
First and foremost, playwriting competitions provide an opportunity for budding playwrights to showcase their talents and creativity. They create a platform for students to express themselves and tell their unique stories, which is a vital aspect of the theatre world. It's a chance to take centre stage and have your voice heard. It nurtures self-expression, allowing students to delve into their imaginations and craft stories that reflect their thoughts and perspectives.
Another significant advantage is the learning experience. When participating in these competitions, students receive valuable feedback and guidance from industry professionals and experienced judges. This constructive criticism helps young playwrights refine their writing skills and develop a deeper understanding of the art. It's like having a personal mentor or coach helping you grow as a playwright.
Furthermore, playwriting competitions introduce students to the competitive nature of the theatre industry. They learn to handle rejection and improve their resilience. Not every play will win, and not every script will be selected for production, but this teaches aspiring playwrights how to deal with disappointment and keep moving forward.
Schemes for up-and-coming playwrights:
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The Writers’ Block at the Minack Theatre, Cornwall
The Writers’ Block is a creative writing space and programme which aims to break down barriers to writing for reluctant writers. It also helps more experienced writers gain greater depth. It is based at the new venue, The Ladder in Redruth.
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The Lynne Gagliano Writers’ Award, the Royal Court, London
An open call for writers aged 18 to 25, this is a paid writing assignment asking for a new piece of work. The award recipient will be attached to the Royal Court for a year, be assigned a mentor, receive free theatre tickets and engage with Royal Court Participation projects.
royalcourttheatre.com/playwriting/awards-fellowships/lynnes-award
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Jerwood New Playwrights in collaboration, the Royal Court, London
This programme was re-launched in 2020 with a focus on writer development opportunities for emerging playwrights. Alongside three commissions, this includes a range of bespoke research and development opportunities at the Royal Court for early-career creatives.
royalcourttheatre.com/playwriting/awards-fellowships/jerwood-new-playwrights
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New Views at the National Theatre, Nationwide
This is an in-school playwriting programme for students between the ages of 14 and 19. As part of the programme each school works with a professional playwright who mentors students throughout the academic year to write their own original 30-minute plays. The winner will get their production performed by professionals on the National Theatre stage.
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Box of Tricks and its PlayMakers Network, Manchester
A growing network of 700+ Northern playwrights, PlayMakers offers various touchpoints for writers at every stage of their development: Pen Pals exchange programme, PlayBox residencies, Screen/Play Award in partnership with Sky Studios and New Tricks commissions. It runs regular events, online masterclasses and creative surgeries.
Opening doors
Participating in these competitions can also open doors to networking opportunities. By engaging with other participants, judges and organisers, students can build connections in the theatre community. These connections can prove invaluable when it comes to finding collaborators, securing production opportunities or even gaining entry into drama schools and theatre programmes.
Moreover, winning or even just being a finalist in a playwriting competition adds a powerful line to a student's CV. It's a recognition of their talent and hard work, something that can impress admissions officers at theatre schools and directors when looking for fresh talent.
These competitions inspire creativity and passion. They motivate students to immerse themselves in the world of theatre, discover their love for writing, and make a commitment to their dreams. The excitement of seeing their work performed on stage or published in a programme can be a truly transformative experience.
Playwriting competitions are excellent ways for school students to get a head start in the theatre industry. A competition can be a launchpad for a career in theatre and, more importantly, a source of inspiration and personal growth.
So, if you can spot a student with a love for the stage, don't hesitate to provide them with the list to the left and encourage them to dive into the world of playwriting schemes and competitions – you never know where it might take them!