Sheffield Theatres runs an annual Script Submission Window, giving us the chance to read work from theatre writers in the region. Our aim is to discover exciting voices and stories on our doorstep and build lasting relationships with those playwrights.

Writers who have submitted in previous years have gone on to:

• Develop their practice through our artist development programmes, such as the Bank Cohort.
• Write for our Creative Engagement department.
• Connect with other makers in the region and collaborate on new work.
• Secure commissions for our stages.

By making this a recurring event rather than accepting scripts year-round, we ensure we have the resources to give each submission the care and attention it deserves.

We also read plays as part of the application process for many of our talent development opportunities throughout the year. Sharing your work via these opportunities is an equally effective way to connect with us.

To stay informed about upcoming opportunities and connect with other makers in South Yorkshire, sign up to the Making Room newsletter for monthly updates, opportunities and offers.

The next Open Script Submission Window will open at 9am on 4 May and closes at 5pm on 1 June 2026. Details of how to apply will be available when applications open.

Join the company of Sheffield Theatres Productions throughout rehearsals.

Making Room Observer opportunities are for aspiring and early-career theatre creatives based locally to Sheffield Theatres who want to familiarise with professional rehearsal practice.

Applications next open in Summer 2025.

Sheffield Theatres is dedicated to meeting and working with professional actors based in our region.

General Workshop Auditions for Local Actors are the first project in a new series of initiatives to develop our awareness of and relationships with local actors.

We know that places at these workshops are limited so we are keen to affirm that this is the beginning of this new process and that there will be more opportunities.

The Rolling Residencies are for theatre creatives based locally to Sheffield Theatres who would benefit from space and funding in the development of a project or idea.

We are interested in ambitious and exciting projects and ideas at early stages of development. This programme is about giving artists the resources they need to reach the next stage of their project. This “next stage” might be the creation of a new draft of a script, space to experiment with new collaborators, or an R&D for a more developed project.

There will be application windows to apply throughout the year. Applications next open in Summer 2025.