Pentabus open applications for Local Young Writers Programme

  • 6-month script writing course for 16 – 30 year olds that culminates in a professional performance.
  • Former Pentabus Young Writers have gone on to full commissions from the company and Olivier Award nominations.

“The help and support I have received throughout my experience with Pentabus has been inspiring. It has helped me gain confidence within myself as a writer and pursue a place at university in a related subject. I am glad I took this opportunity and would recommend it to anyone with an interest in storytelling.” Former Pentabus Young Writer Lorna Lennon-Dalziel. 

Pentabus today announce that they are opening applications for Pentabus Local Young Writers, their 6-month scriptwriting course for 16-30 year olds. Pentabus Young Writers takes place over six months, from February to July 2025, with sessions online and in-person at the Ludlow Assembly Rooms. 

Over the course, successful applicants will work with experienced writers, a director, and the Pentabus team to develop their writing skills and create their own original short play. These plays will be fully realised by a professional cast and creative team as part of Pentabus Young Writers Festival 2025. 

Pentabus is a new writing company currently celebrating its 50th anniversary with a tour of Make Good, a new musical about the Post Office Scandal that has been over three years in the making. By Jeanie O’Hare (book) and Jim Fortune (music and lyrics), Make Good has just embarked upon a 25-venue tour of the UK. 

Recent Pentabus Young Writers groups have been led by Bruntwood Prize winning Tim Foley, Papatango Prize winning Laura Waldren, Off West End Award winning Tom Powell, and Florence Espuet-Nickless, currently under commission at the National Theatre. Pentabus Young Writers have gone on to full commissions from the company and Olivier Award nominations. 

Applicants do not need to have any playwriting experience, just a curiosity about writing for stage. 

Full application details available https://pentabus.co.uk/young-company/young-company-writers/young-writers-local. The deadline to apply is 9am on Monday 2nd December. For an informal conversation about the programme, please contact Joanna Freeman, Head of Engagement, on youngcompany@pentabus.co.uk . 

“I am extremely grateful for this extraordinary opportunity to be involved in the Local Writers Group with Pentabus. The rigorous tutoring sessions and redrafting processes have helped me to elevate my playwriting craft to a much higher standard.  A big thank you to all the incredible writers and tutors.”  Former Pentabus Young Writer Tom Price. 

Past prodution image – Driftwood by Tim Foley – photo featuring Jerome Yates – Andrew Billington.