The Climate Playwriting Prize 2026

The Climate Playwriting Prize is organised by Shakespeare’s Globe in London as part of its ongoing commitment to climate action and environmental storytelling. The prize seeks an original, full-length play that responds to the climate crisis and explores its human, social, political, or ecological dimensions. The competition is aimed at writers who are passionate about theatre and environmental issues, and whose work engages meaningfully with the realities of climate change.

Submissions must be original, unpublished full-length plays written in English. The selected script will be developed with the Globe, offering the winning playwright professional support and the opportunity to see their work realised within one of the UK’s most prominent theatrical institutions. The prize forms part of Shakespeare’s Globe’s wider climate and sustainability initiatives, encouraging artists to imagine bold, urgent, and theatrically compelling responses to the defining issue of our time.

Submitted plays:

• Should be full length plays, of 70 minutes or longer
• Should be written by UK and UK-based playwrights in the English language
• Should not have had a previous production

The winning playwright will receive:

• A cash prize of £15,000
• Dramaturgical support on the development of the play to rehearsal draft with specialists at the Globe, Climate Spring and Fern Culture
• Industry exposure to leading theatre professionals
• The winning play will be optioned for production at the Globe, with an aspiration to produce, or supported by the award producers to find a home for the play.

Is this competition legit?YES! – Based on our research this event is legitimate and the organizer is well established. However, as with any event, please remember to do your own research before submitting your work.

FAQ
If you are curious how writing competitions work, or it’s your first time entering one, we recommend reading our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page first.