Delivered in collaboration with Sydney Theatre Company, Playwrights Lab convenes playwrights with artistic leaders, industry experts and established writers. It is supported by Sydney Theatre Company’s Watershed Program - their new home for new work and artistic development. At the core of Playwrights Lab is CAAP’s mission to address the underrepresentation of Asian Australian voices on stages. CAAP’s previous writers program LOTUS, delivered with Playwriting Australia (now Australian Plays Transform) supported over 70 writers, leaving an indelible mark on the national cultural landscape.

EOIS Are now Open

We are currently seeking expressions of interest from early-to-mid-career Asian Australian playwrights based in NSW to join this program. This year's initiative is led by CAAP Artistic Director, Tessa Leong and STC’s Artistic Director Kip Williams alongside Director of New Work and Artistic Development Paige Rattray. The day-long program will include opportunities for participants to connect with industry leaders and a masterclass with celebrated playwright Anchuli Felicia King, writer of American Signs, Poison of Polygamy, and White Pearl at the Sydney Theatre Company. Participants will gain insights into the new work ecosystem at STC, exploring how new works are developed and the ongoing connection points available to playwrights throughout their careers.

An honorarium will be paid to each of the successful participants.

Playwrights Lab, Gadigal will run Thu 10 Oct.

Who is Eligible 

• Early-to-mid-career Asian Australian playwrights of any age who have written at least one full-length play. The play doesn't need to have been performed.
• Writers must be NSW-based at the time of application.
• Writers must be available for the full day Thu 10 Oct.

How to Apply

Applications are now closed.

Applications will be assessed by the team at CAAP and Sydney Theatre Company. Unfortunately, we are not able to offer individual feedback on unsuccessful applications.

If you have any questions about the application process or access needs, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Acknowledgments 

Playwrights Lab is generously supported by Constellation Creatives Foundation.

CAAP is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW, and assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its arts funding and advisory body.

STC Watershed Lead Patron: Jibb Foundation.

Image: Jay Patel