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 Young Playwrights Award is a free, open-access competition for any teenager in the UK interested in writing a play.
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, and a free workshop at the Royal Court on Tuesday 31 March.
Entries for the Young Playwrights Award 2026 are now open until 12pm (midday) on 22 April 2026. Enter Here.
Want some help to write your play? Take a look below for our video masterclasses and free workshop at the Royal Court on 31 March.
Entries & Awards
Entries will open from 27 January - 22 April 2026, available through an online portal on our website here.
Video Masterclasses
A series of video masterclasses by award-winning playwrights sharing writing exercises, tips and advice.
For Schools & Groups
Do you know any young people with something to say, a gift for writing, or a unique perspective on the world?
Principal Supporter
