Do you have an idea for a short comedy play?
Theatr Cymru is looking for 4 writers to write short comedy plays to be performed at Caffi Maes B during the 2026 National Eisteddfod. We’re keen to hear from writers based in or with connections to West Wales – and especially, any ideas exploring the people, places and voices of Pembrokeshire.
Following the incredible success of Wrecslam! (2025), Ha/Ha (2024) and Rŵan/Nawr (2023), Wes Wes! will be sure to attract audiences in their hundreds to Caffi Maes B and offers a great opportunity for writers to see their work come to life, whether they’ve previously written for the stage or not.
The Wes Wes! programme will support playwrights to develop their writing and dramaturgy skills through the creation of original 10-minute plays. The process will include dramaturgical workshops and masterclasses, before finally presenting the plays in a series of performances at the National Eisteddfod in 2026.
How to apply:
Wes Wes! is open to anyone who meets the following criteria:
- Is 18 years old or older
- Speaks Welsh or eager to build confidence to use Welsh in their work
- A writer, artist or freelance worker in the creative sector, with experience of or an ambition to work within theatre.
There are two stages to the application process for Wes Wes! First, there will be a period for artists to express their interest in the programme, and provide an example of their writing, and then we will invite those shortlisted to submit a full application expressing their idea in greater detail and an excerpt of the script (paid).
Step 1: Expressions of Interest (by 25 February 2025)
Expression of Interest Form: Wes Wes! Ffurflen Mynegi Diddordeb / Expression of Interest Form – Fill in form
To express your interest in being part of Wes Wes!, please complete an Expression of Interest Form in Welsh via Microsoft Forms, or you can submit a video application (2 minutes maximum) by emailing creu@theatr.com or via WhatsApp on 07903 842604.
As part of this process, you will need to provide an example of your script writing and complete our Equality Monitoring Form.
Deadline to express interest: 12pm Monday 23 February 2025
The panel will consider applications and choose a shortlist of 8 artists: the panel will be confirmed.
Step 2: Submit a Pitch (shortlist only)
The short-listed artists will hear from us on 4 March 2026 with an invitation to present a more detailed pitched for a 10-minute play, as well as an example of dialogue.
We will provide an application form, as well as further information on presenting your idea, to the 8 who have been shortlisted. We will also offer a fee of £50 for those on the shortlist after they have submitted their pitches.
Deadline for full applications: 12pm, 30 March 2026
After receiving and discussing each pitch, the panel will choose up to 4 of these to develop further with us. The finished work from these playwrights will be staged at the National Eisteddfod 2026.
Developing the Play (Successful artists only)
During the weeks following, the successful artists will work on their scripts for the performance at the National Eisteddfod. The process will include dramaturgical workshops and masterclasses.
The artists will also work closely with professional directors who will offer support and guidance every step of the way.
The submission dates for drafts are:
Draft 1: Monday 18 May 2026
Draft 2: Monday 15 June 2026
Final draft: Tuesday 30 June 2026
Rehearsal draft: 13 July 2026
One-to-one meetings to discuss and offer feedback will be arranged closer to the time and subject to the individuals’ availability.
In August, the 10-minute plays will be staged across four nights at the National Eisteddfod in a production by Theatr Cymru. The artists will receive a fee of £906.66 each for their work.
The Frequently Asked Questions below contains more information. But if you have further questions about this project or the application process, please get in touch with Fflur Thomas on fflur.thomas@theatr.com.