What's New > Banff Playwrights Lab 2025 | Call for Applications
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Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity has been training artists since 1933 in the Canadian Rockies and has offered drama and playwriting programs in some form since that first year.
The Banff Playwrights Lab, now marking its 50th edition, was created by playwrights Tom Hendry and George Ryga in 1974 to support the development of new plays in Canada. Since then, more than 800 plays have been written, created and workshopped at Banff Centre by leading playwrights from across the country and beyond. Its alumni include 500 playwrights plus dramaturgs, actors and directors, and it is one of the longest continuously operating writing programs at Banff Centre.
Dates
- Application Deadline: October 23, 2024
- Program Dates: April 21 – May 03, 2025
Overview
The newly reimagined Playwrights Lab 2025 program offers an inspiring, interdisciplinary, and inclusive environment for both emerging and established playwrights, dramaturgs and creators of new theatrical work. We invite playwrights to develop compelling new work, with urgent narratives across all genres. Join us during this pivotal time when the theatre community is facing both crisis and renewal and where playwrights are the foundation for leading the way forward.
Description
Twenty Canadian writers will participate in a two-week residency gaining invaluable experience under the guidance of expert faculty. This residency provides a unique opportunity to refine your craft and connect with fellow playwrights. Emerging playwrights will receive hands-on instruction and practical feedback. Established playwrights will have more self-directed time to work on their projects. Participants will benefit from:
- Thematic Teaching: Explore key themes and techniques.
- Q&A Sessions: Engage in discussions with faculty.
- Seminars: Attend insightful seminars on various aspects of playwriting.
- One-on-One Workshopping: Receive personalized feedback and support.
- Studio Space: Playwrights will be offered a workspace suited to the nature of their creative projects.
- Dramaturgical Sessions: Develop your work with expert dramaturgical guidance.
- Apprentice Dramaturgs will receive mentorship from the faculty, and the ability to audit sessions where appropriate.
Faculty will offer constructive feedback, share ideas, and address the challenges of writing for contemporary theatre.