Royal Court Theatre's Young Writers Programme, London
The YWP runs regular playwriting courses for the 13-16 and 17-25 age groups, occasional courses for the 26+ age group and a summer project for the 16-19 age group.

They have the Young Writers Festival 2007 happening at the moment – D.C Moore (2005 Playwright Delegate) and Tom Holloway (2003 Playwright Delegate) have just had readings of their plays at the Festival. And here’s what is coming up :
"Gone Too Far" by Bola Agbaje

Bola Agbaje's comic, astute new play about identity, history and culture depicts a world where respect is always demanded but rarely freely given.
Dates: 2 - 17 February 2007.

"The Eleventh Capital" by Alexandra Wood

The Eleventh Capital is an arresting new play about dislocation, manipulation and power. You can't stop the march of progress, no one can.
Dates: 23 February - 10 March 2007
New Writing Forum

What is the state of new writing today?
Is new writing exciting, original and abundant? Or, are there just too many mediocre new plays by average writers with nothing to say?
Time and Date: 11am, 10 February 2007
For more details on the Young Writers Festival and all of YWP's upcoming opportunities, check out their website: www.royalcourttheatre.com/ywp.asp

You are also able to submit plays to YWP for feedback. Again, please check their website for submission guidelines, and a submission form.

Young Writers Programme: 0207 565 5050 or ywp@royalcourttheatre.com
Soho Theatre, London
Verity Bargate Award

Every two years Soho Theatre launches a national competition to find the best new play by an emerging writer. The winner will thrill our London audience with their imaginitive, daring and relevant work. The winners will receive: £5,000 and the chance to have their play produced at Soho Theatre. More details will be announced in early February.
VBA Open Access Workshops

Open Access Workshops use discussion and practical exercises to explore different aspects of writing for the stage. This season will explore the process behind creating a new piece of theatre for the Verity Bargate Award. You need to book to be involved.
Soho Theatre has heaps of opportunities for young writers. Above is just a glimpse at a couple of their upcoming opportunities. For more details and to book your place in their workshops, go to their website: www.sohotheatre.com
Traverse Theatre, Scotland's New Writing Theatre
The Traverse mission is to nurture, develop and produce the work of contemporary playwrights from Scotland to the highest possible standards. Alongside this, the Traverse develops and presents high-quality translations of leading International plays.

The Traverse provide feedback on unsolicited scripts, and new writers aged 18-25 are also able to join their fortnightly Young Writers Group, led by a professional playwright.

For more information and for further activities, please check out their website:
www.traverse.co.uk/new_writing.html