Open Submissions Festivals

Presented in partnership with Character7.

We read thousands of new plays every year. The promise that every submission is considered and responded to is central to our mission. Our Open Submissions Festivals energise this promise, championing the best new plays our teams are reading – and offering audiences a first look at the future of contemporary theatre. 

Twice a year, these week-long events present a festival of staged readings as a gateway for the best new work – including those in contention for programming at the Court. With permission from (and payment for) submitted writers, we’ll bring together a professional team to give them the best platform possible. 

The great news is, for writers, there’s no need for another application process. Just by submitting a play via our open submissions portal, it will immediately be considered for festivals, future programming and other opportunities. 

Full details, dates and line-ups will be announced throughout the year.