Submissions now open!
We hosted a webinar on Thursday, July 2nd, with Mainstage Founder Sophie Cairns, Chair Pippa Hill and Literary Manager Laura Turner. We talked about the background of the Prize, submission and reading process, what we’re looking for from writers, and answered questions from the audience. You can see a recording of the webinar below.
Webinar Part 1
Webinar Part 2
About The Prize
At a time when theatres are actively seeking work that resonates widely and revitalises attendance, the Prize supports writers who think big: plays with emotional weight, narrative drive, and the power to fill a room. The Mainstage Prize celebrates theatrical storytelling with scale — bold characters, gripping plots, and ideas that spark public conversation.
Each year, the Mainstage Prize will award one playwright a £10,000 cash prize, a rehearsed reading of their play, and mentorship opportunities with members of the judging panel.
The Theme
HORROR
For 2026, The Mainstage Prize turns to Horror: thrilling, visceral, and wildly audience-grabbing theatre that reminds us why we love to be scared.
Timeline
Submissions Open
May 15
Submissions Close
August 1
Shortlist Announced
October
Finalists Announced
December
Prize Giving
February
The Mainstage Prize is made possible by the support of:
