Unwritten
Connecting local writers and directors
As part of our Local Creatives Programme, Unwritten is an exciting development opportunity designed to bring local writers and directors together to collaborate, experiment, and create original new work for the stage.
Through creative pitching, partnership‑building, and live scratch performances, Unwritten supports theatre-makers to develop bold new ideas and forge lasting creative connections. Open to both emerging and established artists, the programme celebrates the joy of new writing and collaborative theatre‑making in a supportive environment at Theatre Royal Winchester.
Winners of Unwritten 2025
How the programme works
Bringing together six writers and six directors, the journey begins with a unique "creative speed dating" event. Writers pitch ideas for short monologues or duologues to directors in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment. From these initial conversations, creative teams are formed and original ideas begin their journey from concept to performance.
Participants work together to create a 10–15 minute piece for a live scratch performance evening. Following this, one production will be selected for further development into a full 45‑minute showcase performance, supported by bespoke mentoring and dedicated rehearsal space.
Programme timeline
Phase 1: Creative speed dating
- Date & time: Monday 14 September 2026 | 7pm – 9pm
- Location: Atrium, Theatre Royal Winchester
- The setup: Writers and directors meet to pitch ideas, share creative interests, and form partnerships for the project in a relaxed, speed‑dating‑style format. Nibbles and drinks will be provided!
- Writers: Please bring a pitch or an example of a monologue or duologue.
- Directors: Please bring examples of previous work or a portfolio.
Phase 2: Scratch night
- Date & time: Monday 2 November 2026 | 7pm – 9pm
- Location: Atrium, Theatre Royal Winchester
- The setup: Creative teams will present their 10–15 minute monologue or duologue in front of a live audience. Directors will cast performers for the piece, and one production will be selected by a panel to progress to the final stage of development.
Phase 3: The showcase
- Date & time: Monday 8 February 2027 | 7pm – 8pm
- Location: Main House, Theatre Royal Winchester
- The setup: The selected piece will receive intensive support to grow into a polished, 45-minute production.
The selected production will receive:
- Dedicated rehearsal space at Theatre Royal Winchester.
- Professional mentorship from the Play to the Crowd team.
- Creative support developing the work into a full 45‑minute production.
- Covered travel expenses for up to four artists involved in the project.
- A final showcase performance on our stage followed by an audience feedback session.
Who can apply?
We warmly welcome applications from writers and directors of all experience levels who are passionate about new writing and collaborative theatre‑making.
- Applicants must be aged 18 or over and based locally.
- You must be fully available for all three programme dates listed in the timeline.
- Please note, this is an unpaid professional development opportunity.
How to apply
Our Unwritten: Callout for Writers and Directors 2026 is now live!
