BBC World Service and British Council bring you International Radio Playwriting Competition 2020!

The global competition, now in its 27th year, offers a unique opportunity for playwrights to use the medium of radio drama to reach an international audience. 

There are two categories for entry - one for entrants who speak English as a first language and the other for entrants with English as a second language. The two winning applicants will receive £2,500, a trip to London, and their play will be recorded and broadcast on BBC World Service!

Eligibility criteria

The global competition is open to people over 18 and living outside of the UK. Applicants should submit a 53 minute radio play in English to be considered. We encourage both new and established writers to apply. 

Submission guidelines

Your play must be original, and written substantially or entirely in English. The play needs to be 53 minutes long, and on any subject of the writer's choice. Entrants can submit their entries online on the BBC World Service website.

Competition dates

The competition is open from 1 October 2019, and the closing date for entries is midnight (GMT) on 31 January 2020.

For more details, visit the BBC World Service website here.