Playmarket’s Plays for the Young Competition 2026

Written By Jenny Wake

Do you have an original and inventive play written to inspire and excite young audiences? Whether you are a young person or a senior writer, the age of the audience is what counts.

Your play might be written for adults to perform to children, or for young actors to perform themselves. It might be created specifically for the classroom by a teacher, or by students themselves.

In 2026, there are three categories, and a winner will be awarded in each category. These are:

  • Plays written to be performed for 3-12 year olds

  • Plays written to be performed by 3-12 year olds

  • Plays written to be performed for and/or by teenagers 

Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, there will be a prize of $500 awarded to the winner of each category this year. 

Submissions close 1 August.

SEE MORE HERE: https://www.playmarket.org.nz/competitions

Jenny Wake
Next

Rampenlichter Festival 2027