Playwriting Programs

Merrigong  Theatre Company has a long history of developing and producing new work by Australian playwrights.  Merrigong Theatre Company and the South Coast Writers Centre are both dedicated to leading from the regions and nurturing the next generation of creative writers and artists. For this reason, Merrigong and the SCWC have formed a partnership to invest in the next generation of theatre storytellers via a long-term development program for those with an interest in writing for the stage.

The 2025 SCWC / Merrigong Playwrights Program aims to create a space where writers are encouraged to develop their writing projects among a safe and supportive group of peers. The purpose is to foster community with a group of writers, give them space to write and think about their practice, and to share work. Capped at 10 participants, this is a 10-month program that will run from February-November 2025. The group will meet monthly on Saturdays either at Coledale Community Hall or at a performance in one of Merrigong’s venues. Over the course of the program, participants will also see and discuss Merrigong shows, will hear from guest industry teachers, and will workshop the participants plays in development. The group will be convened by Tom Peach, playwright, ex-president of Stanwell Park Arts Theatre and an alumni of the Merrigong Playwrights Program.

Criteria: This program is open to anyone aged 18 and above. We encourage applications from Indigenous Australians, people with disability, people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, mature age workers and LGBQTI people.  Participants will need to be members of the SCWC to accept a position in the program. We are committed to providing an inclusive culture and program where all our artists are valued and recognised for their unique qualities, ideas and perspectives.

Cost: The full program cost is $250 (this includes tickets to Merrigong Theatre Company shows): a sliding payment scale and payment plan is available.