A free introduction to playwriting programme for 16–25 year olds from Hull and East Yorkshire.

Thanks to support from the I Am Fund, Middle Child is able to launch No Dress Code: a new programme to increase access to theatre for 16–25 year olds in our region.

This includes a free introduction to playwriting short course, taking place across the February half-term break, led by renowned playwright Lydia Marchant (Mumsy, Eastenders, British Scandal).

Over the course of four days, Lydia will share her writing expertise through practical sessions to learn new playwriting skills, find your voice and write your first ever play, to be performed by professional actors.

These pieces will then be featured at Fresh Ink: Hull Playwriting Festival 2026, amongst our wider programme of new plays.

Who can apply?

This free programme is open to any 16–25 year old with a HU postcode.

This course is a perfect introduction to professional playwriting for young people with an interest in theatre, and how plays are made, from first idea to final performance.