The future’s bright at the Genesis Almeida programme.
Amazing as it currently is, the London theatre scene is nothing without new writing, a steady stream of fabulous fresh talent that keeps things from turning stale. The Almeida Theatre is acutely aware of this, and to do their bit to nurture up-and-coming writing talent, they run an excellent annual programme to help commission new plays. The Genesis Almeida New Playwrights, Big Plays Programme offers emerging playwrights a wealth of opportunities to develop their work, and here’s what you need to know.
If you’re an emerging or mid-career writer, the Genesis Almeida programme is something you should definitely be eyeing up. Each writer accepted to the programme is commissioned to develop a brand new play, whilst receiving advice, guidance, and support from the Almeida’s Literary Manager and artistic team.
Of course, it’s immensely helpful to learn from those who have been there, done that, and got the awards to show for it, which is why the programme also invites leading British and international playwrights to come along and offer their tips for success. Over the course of twelve masterclasses, and one intensive five-day research and development workshop, the plays will change and grow towards the finished product, hopefully then seeing their time on the stage.
All the playwrights in the Genesis Almeida programme are chosen for their incisive writing, boundless imagination, and desire to innovate. The 2019/20 class has already been selected, and the names to look out for across playbills in the future are Kendall Feaver, Sami Ibrahim, Charley Miles, Amy Ng, Iman Qureshi, Sam Steiner, and Ross Willis. With all that expertise guiding them, and the handy support of the Genesis Foundation behind them, you shouldn’t be surprised to see this lot scooping up Oliviers in years to come!
You can learn more about the Genesis Almeida programme, and keep an eye on openings for next year, by checking out the Almeida website.