Young Playwrights Award 

Entries open until 12pm (midday) on 22 April 2026.

The Royal Court Theatre’s Young Playwrights Award is now open for entries!

The Young Playwrights Award is a free, open-access competition for any teenager aged 13-18 in the UK, interested in writing a play. Everyone who enters gets personal feedback, and winning plays will be showcased in a festival at the Royal Court Theatre, in staged readings by professional directors and actors!

The Royal Court is offering support and advice at every step – including dedicated resources for schools and groups getting involved. Checkout our video masterclasses by award-winning playwrights who share their tips and advice when writing for the stage.