Theatre Centre Announces The Brian Way Award

Theatre Centre announces The Brian Way Award

Theatre Centre is pleased to announce The Brian Way Award, our first open call out for one of our annual commissions. The commissioned play will then be produced for our flagship national tour in 2019. Named in memory of our founder Brian Way, who established Theatre Centre in 1953, The Brian Way Award welcomes expressions of interest on the theme of ‘Treaty' from professional UK-based playwrights. We are particularly hopeful the opportunity will encourage writers who may not have considered writing work for young audiences to do so for the first time.

The Brian Way Award opens on Thursday 4th January 2018 and closes at midday on Friday 16th February 2018. We are keen to receive work from ambitious, visionary and diverse playwrights and hope writers across the UK interpret the theme in unique and innovative ways. As with all Theatre Centre commissions, we are looking for work that nurtures empathy, encourages conversation and galvanises activism among young audiences.

Natalie Wilson, Theatre Centre's Artistic Director said:
“In 2019, as we remember the centenary of the Treaty of Versailles that shaped post-war Europe, we will also be anticipating a new and unprecedented Treaty with the EU, leading the UK and younger generations into unchartered territory. As our government closes the doors to Europe, we want to throw them open to UK writers and welcome their ideas for plays which imagine, navigate and shape the future. We are looking for writing that brings a loud, clear and visionary voice to young audiences and we will support the chosen winner to nurture a forward-facing narrative that inspires young people across the country.”

Theatre Centre creates powerful productions and projects which empower young leadership and youth activism. Theatre Centre has been a pioneer and sector leader in new writing for young audiences for 65 years.  With over 250 plays commissioned, we are committed to creating artistically excellent, diverse work through innovative practice in order to bring the highest quality of theatre to young audiences. We commission and produce plays from contemporary writers to tour nationally into schools and venues, making the arts accessible to all young people wherever they live and whatever their circumstances.

Theatre Centre will announce The Brian Way Award shortlist in March 2018, with one winner being commissioned in April 2018, consisting of a 16 month script writing and development process and culminating in a national UK tour of secondary schools and arts venues in 2019. Full details of the opportunity can be found on the Theatre Centre website.