LIVE PLAYWRITING
Introduction to Playwriting Course 2026
Have you ever had an idea for a play but had no idea where to start?
Our Introduction to Playwriting course is a practical, playful and supportive six week programme for aspiring theatre writers who want to learn the fundamentals of writing for the stage in a fun, no pressure environment. Led by Live Theatre’s creative team, the course will guide you through the process of turning your initial idea into a script.
Over the six weeks you will explore the essential building blocks of playwriting through creative writing exercises, play readings, group discussion and feedback. You’ll learn how to develop an idea, create compelling characters, understand dramatic action, write effective dialogue and think about structure, form and theatricality.
By the end you will have written a 10 minute script which will be showcased as part of our Unearthed Festival this summer.
Application deadline: 12noon, Friday 22 May 2026
Who is it for?
This course is for writers who are at the beginning of their playwriting journey and have not had a play professionally produced before. Whether you’re completely new to writing, have written in other forms, or are curious about theatre-making, this course will give you the tools, confidence and creative support to take your first steps as a playwright.
You do not need any previous writing experience, just an idea for a play and a burning curiosity to write stories for the stage.
Where?
The course will be a mixture of sessions happening both in-person and online over Zoom, with opportunities to share work-in-progress and receive informal feedback from Live Theatre’s creative team and peers.
Course details
Dates: Mondays, starting 1 June 2026
Time: 6pm–8pm
Duration: 6 weeks
Location: A mixture of in-person and online Zoom sessions
Led by: Live Theatre’s creative team
Outcome: Write a 10-minute script to be showcased at Unearthed Festival 2026.
Eligibility: For aspiring theatre writers aged 16+ who have not had a play produced before
How to apply?
Just tell us you name, contact details and confirm you are based in the North East here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Z6XXDSB
...it’s as easy as that!
Previous course guest tutors have included:
- Anna Jordan – YEN, Succession, Killing Eve
- Samuel D. Hunter – The Whale (Oscar Winner), A Case for the Existence of God
- Vinay Patel – Murdered By My Father, Doctor Who
- Chinonyerem Odimba – Unknown Rivers, My Best Friend Married A Warrior
- Phoebe Eclair-Powell – Shed: Exploded View, Epic Love and Pop Songs
