A DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME FOR EARLY-CAREER PLAYWRIGHTS TO GROW, CONNECT AND BRING BOLD NEW STORIES TO THE STAGE.
Trajectories is a fully supported bursary programme that invests in early-career theatre artists (aged 18-28) making new performance work in Scotland. The New Writers programme supports you to develop your own playwriting voice and create an original 20-minute script, which will be professionally directed and performed by actors as part of A Play, A Pie and A Pint showcase in January 2026 – one of Scotland’s best-loved platforms for new writing.
Who you’ll be working with
- 3 other young writers
- An established Lead Artist who will mentor you, offer dramaturgical support and curate the learning programme
- Guest artists and facilitators who will deliver masterclasses and workshops
- A professional Director who will help bring your script to life for the showcase
- Actors who perform your work
- Scottish Youth Theatre staff who will support your professional development
- A Play, A Pie and A Pint staff on the lead up to the showcase
What you’ll get
Selected young writers will create a collaborative learning community to explore and develop their writing and artistic practice, supported by a team of leading industry professionals. Writers will each be provided with:
- A trainee bursary of £2,000
- Access and wellbeing support
- Masterclasses with skilled professional playwrights
- Industry insight sessions to help you thrive and survive in the sector
- 1-2-1 dramaturgical support
- Dedicated time with a professional producer from SYT
- Personal professional development planning
- Travel costs
- Accommodation fund (for those living a distance from Glasgow)
For more information
You can read a full breakdown of the programme, including the support you’ll receive, the project timeline and the selection process in the Project Information Pack below. If you would like to discuss if Trajectories is the right project for you before applying, please get in touch with Artistic Producer Annie Lowry Thomas at annie@scottishyouththeatre.org for an informal chat. Please also read the FAQs listed below the application form that should answer any queries you have. Trajectories is a bursary programme for young theatre-makers based in Scotland, aged 18-28.
How to apply
Applications have now closed. We will be in touch with all applicants shortly.
applicationS have now closed
Trajectories New Writers is produced by Scottish Youth Theatre, in partnership with A Play, A Pie and A Pint, supported by Creative Scotland and The D’Oyly Carte Charitable Trust.
Do I need to have an idea for a script to apply?
No, you don’t need a fully formed idea at this stage. However, to get the most out of Trajectories, we’re looking for writers who have a sense of the kind of work they want to explore and have already begun developing their writing voice. You’re very welcome to apply with a script you’d like to work on, but do keep in mind the A Play, A Pie and A Pint format your final piece will be presented within.
Do I need to have written a show before?
No, you don’t need to have written a full length show before, and it doesn’t need to have been professionally staged. However, we encourage applications from artists who have some writing experience and are keen to develop their practice for the stage. This programme is aimed at those writing with live performance in mind.
Do I count as an early-career artist?
We define early-career as a young person, on the cusp of a career in theatre and the arts that needs space to locate and develop their practice, self-discipline and trust in themselves as theatre-makers. They are actively seeking opportunities to help give them a foothold in accessing professional opportunities within the industry.
Can I apply with a script that’s been performed before?
We want writers to make the most of this development opportunity and take creative risks in the writers’ room. We therefore ask artists to only apply with an idea that’s had no development further than a Scratch night.
Can I write anything I like on the programme?
Not quite. Your final 20-minute script will be staged as part of A Play, A Pie and A Pint, which comes with some practical parameters. You’ll have access to up to 3 performers, a simple set, and basic tech support for sound and lighting cues. So your script needs to work within this context, with no more than 3 actors on stage in any scene.
Can I perform it myself?
We’re looking for playwrights, not performers. Your script will be brought to life by actors and a Director. If you write work to perform yourself, we’re happy to consider this too, and you’ll have the chance to discuss it with the Lead Artist and Producer as part of the process.
What if I’m not available for all the dates?
Please do not apply if you’re not available for all the dates listed, as these are fixed, and your attendance is mandatory.
What if I’m studying?
Due to the time commitment and intensive nature of Trajectories, we are not accepting applications from people in full-time education. If you are in part-time education and are still available on all the dates listed then you are welcome to apply, but please contact Artistic Producer Annie on annie@scottishyouththeatre.org to discuss your suitability for this project.
What if I live too far away to travel to Glasgow?
We encourage artists from all over Scotland to apply. Travel will be reimbursed for all artists, and for artists travelling from further afield, accommodation will be provided.
What if I live outside of Scotland?
Sorry, this opportunity is for Scotland-based artists only.
Do I need to have participated in a Scottish Youth Theatre project before?
You don’t need to have taken part in any Scottish Youth Theatre project before. This opportunity is not open to former Trajectories or textLAB participants.
What if I have access needs?
We believe in supporting and enabling all young people with an interest and passion for theatre and the arts to achieve their creative potential. There is an access budget to support artist access needs, which may include things like additional equipment, printing costs and assistant costs. We work with our partner venues to make sure all rehearsal and performance spaces are wheelchair accessible.
We also work with wellbeing specialists Pure Potential Scotland to provide workshops on mental health and wellbeing as well as optional 1-2-1 therapeutic sessions. You can read more about our access support here.