Annual children’s playwriting project seeks to inspire the next generation of writers in Wales.

Theatr Iolo have announced they will be running their Young Playwrights Project for a third year this spring. The children’s theatre company based in Cardiff are seeking young people between the ages of 7 and 18 to write an original, imaginative and relevant 10-minute podcast drama for an audience of the same age. Theatr Iolo's Artistic Director, Lee Lyford, along with a panel of industry professionals, will choose four plays to be developed further.  

“We’re delighted to be running Young Playwrights again this year. It’s brilliant opportunity for children and young people from Wales to write about whatever is of interest to them, and we hope to receive plays that share and celebrate many voices. The only limit is the young people’s imagination!”
Lee Lyford, Theatr Iolo’s Artistic Director

The four chosen young writers will have their script turned into a podcast drama and spend time alongside a director and team of actors who will bring their idea to life.

To support children, parents and teachers, Theatr Iolo have published a series of resources on their website to help those who are interested in writing, including top tips videos with some of Wales best playwrights. Children are encouraged to submit their ideas in Welsh, English, bilingually. For the first time, Theatr Iolo are also welcoming ideas in British Sign Language.

“We believe it’s incredibly important for children and young people to be able to express themselves creatively through their own language and so this year are inviting submissions in British Sign Language, as well as Welsh and English. BSL entries that are taken through the next stage will have the opportunity to have their play recorded as a video with actors who use BSL.”
Michelle Perez, Theatr Iolo’s Executive Director

Submissions should be emailed to hello@theatriolo.com by Monday 26 February 2024.

Key Dates:

·      Closing date: Monday 26 February 2024

·      Winners announced: W/C 18 March 2024

·      Winning plays recorded: W/C 3 June 2024