Applications for our Early Career Writers Programme are now open!

We want to encourage and support early career writers to take bold next steps with their practice. As part of our literary programme, we will be inviting a group of early career playwrights to take part in a new free programme hosted by Bristol Old Vic and lead by industry professionals, scheduled across several weeks from November 2024 to May 2025.

Practically, how will it work?

• Four writers selected in the first year
• Selected writers will be based in the South West
• Light touch application process: tell us a bit about yourself and share a bit of your writing.
• Will be lead in the first year by local playwright Ross Willis (Wolfie, Wonder Boy)
• There will be no age limit on participation – you just need to be ‘early’ in your practice
• 8 – 12 sessions programmed across a commitment of 6 months, designed to fit around/outside of existing work commitments
• A focus on training and skills development through writing workshops early in the programme
• Opportunity to develop and share your writing for the stage with your cohort, lead writer and the BOV Literary team for feedback
• Bursaries & stipends will be available to participants to navigate barriers to attendance
• Writers will be able to access space to work in, invitations to press nights, free tickets to Bristol Old Vic shows as well as discounts in our bar and kitchen throughout the programme