Playwriting Program
SCWC & MERRIGONG
PLAYWRIGHTS PROGRAM
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 Theatre Company 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 2026 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 2026. 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 Theatre Company shows, will hear from guest industry teachers, and will workshop the participants plays in development.
Applicants:
This program is open to anyone aged 18 and above.
Participants will need to be members of the SCWC to accept a position in the program.
We encourage applications from Indigenous Australians, people with disability, people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, mature-age and LGBQTI people.
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). Payment plans will be made available.
APPLICATIONS FOR 2026 CLOSE SUNDAY JANUARY 18th, 11:59PM
The SCWC is proud to partner with Merrigong Theatre Company on the 2026 SCWC & Merrigong Playwrights Program.
Other Playwriting/Performance Partner Programs
Class Clowns
As part of Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Merrigong hosts a youth comedy program, Class Clowns, where young people are led by a professional comedian to develop their piece before performing as part of the Class Clowns Wollongong heat. The overall national winner receives a cash prize of $1,500, and a workshop package for their school.
Young Playwrights Project
The Young Playwrights Project is a collaborative initiative between Merrigong Theatre Company and The Drama Studio that provides young actors and playwrights with the opportunity to develop their theatre-making skills under the guidance of industry professionals.
The SPAT New Works Festival
Stanwell Park Arts Theatre, SPAT, is a community theatre group that helps to provide a place for the community to tell their stories, and participate, in theatre. The festival is an opportunity for playwrights to take a new work and have it read on stage in front of a live audience.