‘Life-Changing’ North East Playwriting Award runs for a second year

Live Theatre, Newcastle is hugely excited to announce the open call for the second North East Playwriting Award, following the huge success of previous winner Dogs On The Metro.

Open to all writers over the age of 16 who are from, living or working in the North by East, the main award will offer a playwright a full-length commission fee with a view to a production for Live Theatre’s stage. A second Young Person’s Award (aged 16-25 years), will offer brand new talent a package of R&D support.

Emilie Robson, winner of last year’s Dogs On The Metro said: “Winning the North East Playwriting prize was genuinely life-changing. Opportunities for new playwrights can be thin on the ground so prizes like these are not only hugely validating but a genuine pipeline to seeing your work realised on stage. Connor Dorrian Young Person’s Award winner in 2024 said: “Winning the Under 26 North East Playwriting Award was a giant step in my career, opening many new doors while also giving me confidence to pursue my creative passion. Working with Live Theatre has been surreal. They have helped develop not only my play but my skills as a writer.”

Live Theatre’s Artistic Director Jack McNamara said: “We are so excited to open this award up for a second time, after being blown away by last year’s submissions and winners. Whether you are new to playwriting or an established name, all plays are read anonymously and will be given equal consideration. The North East clearly has a lot to say and we hope this open window encourages writers of all backgrounds and experience to take a punt and send their work in.”

In the build up to the award, Live Theatre will also host the Great North Write on Saturday 6 September where, the day before the big run, writers are invited to Live Theatre to take over its spaces and write, plan and seek advice from staff and seasoned professionals.

The deadline for submissions to the North East Playwriting Award is Friday 30 October 2025.

For further information on the award and other talent development opportunities go to www.live.org.uk