The Jewish Literary Foundation has announced the return of its Jewish Playwrights Programme for 2026/27, with applications opening to playwrights across the UK for the first time.
The programme will support the development of a full-length play, helping foster the next generation of Jewish playwrights and championing stories that reflect the richness and diversity of Jewish life in Britain.
Building on the success of its inaugural year, the Jewish Literary Foundation returns with its flagship development programme, which will support eight emerging and early-career playwrights from across the UK to develop new work for the stage. In a first for the programme, places on the 2026/27 cohort will be awarded through open applications, with its most expansive and accessible offering to date.
Designed to strengthen the presence of Jewish playwrights and Jewish stories within UK theatre, the six-month programme welcomes playwrights who identify as Jewish, alongside writers whose work explores Jewish life, culture and identity. Over six months, participants will receive sustained creative and professional support as they develop a full-length script. The programme will be led by Julia Pascal, an award-winning playwright and director, author of 24 full-length stage plays, and the first woman to direct at the National Theatre.
Generously sponsored by the Shoresh Charitable Trust, and in partnership with Artsdepot.
Full details of the programme, eligibility criteria, and the application form can be found
here
Deadline: 3 August 2026, 5.00pm BST