Young Playwrights Award

Do you have an idea or a story to tell? Can you imagine it performed live, by actors on a stage? It’s time to start your playwriting journey. 

The Royal Court Young Playwrights Award is a free, open-access competition for anyone aged 13-18 in the UK. All entrants receive personal feedback, and winners will have their plays professionally performed in London and published by Nick Hern Books.

Your play can be about anything you want or imagine: something that inspires you, a story not told before, or ideas that challenge the world around you. To help you get the most out of the experience, we also offer support and advice at every step - including dedicated resources for schools and groups getting involved.

Live Theatre is hosting a free workshop, led by Royal Court Associate Playwright Ishy Din, will help you get started coming up with ideas and writing scenes for your play.