.png)
YOUNG
PLAYWRIGHTS
PROGRAM
IGNITE IMAGINATION
The Young Playwrights Program is a year-round theatre-writing initiative designed to nurture and empower emerging voices in Grades 9–12. Created for students with a passion for storytelling, drama, and creative expression, the program provides a dynamic and supportive environment where young writers can explore the art of playwriting—from the spark of an idea to the final bow.
Participants engage in a series of age-appropriate workshops led by experienced theatre professionals and educators. Through writing exercises, improvisation, character development, and scene study, students build the skills needed to craft compelling, original works for the stage. In addition to learning dramatic structure and dialogue, students also explore themes of identity, community, social justice, and imagination, encouraged to write from their own experiences and perspectives.
All participants receive one-on-one mentorship from professional playwrights, actors, and directors, and selected works may be featured in our annual Shiny Penny Festival of New Works—a public showcase celebrating the talent and vision of Canada’s established and emerging playwrights.
Whether students are new to theatre or seasoned drama enthusiasts, the Young Playwrights Program offers a welcoming space to develop their voice, shape their stories, and discover the joy and power of live theatre.
ONLINE REGISTRATION IS OPEN UNTIL
September 1st, 2025
PARTICIPANTS WILL…
-
Learn the fundamentals of script creation including theatre terminology, script analysis, character creation, and workshopping
-
Experience all aspects of theatrical production including costuming, set and prop creation, and theatre tech
-
Learn and receive mentorship from experienced industry professionals
-
Earn high school volunteer hours
-
Grow in confidence and skill in a safe and encouraging environment dedicated to their comfort and well-being
-
Create lifelong friendships
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
THE YOUNG PLAYWRIGHTS PROGRAM is open to young writers in Grades 9-12.
Penny & Pound Theatre Productions is a safe and inclusive youth and young adult production company with a mission to offer the best in community arts and youth theatre education in the Region. We encourage full participation from those identifying as members of the IBPOC community and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, as well as performers with disAbilities and those of all gender identities, social and economic backgrounds and beliefs. We are looking for enthusiastic theatre creators who want to hone their skills and take their work from page to stage! No previous experience is necessary. All we ask is that all students enjoy creative challenges, are hardworking and have a love of the theatrical arts!
TERMS & PRICING
TERM ONE | SEPTEMBER-DECEMBER 2025
TERM TWO | JANUARY-JUNE 2026
Each term of the Young Playwrights Program is thoughtfully structured to guide students through the full journey of writing for the stage — from first idea to final draft. Term One will culminate in a staged reading of their works. Term Two will culminate in productions of ‘The Secret Garden’ and ‘A Little Princess,’ written by the Young Playwrights Program participants and performed by the Junior and High School companies.
Weekly Sessions Include:
-
Creative Warm-Ups & Writing Prompts: Fun, engaging exercises to spark creativity and overcome writer’s block.
-
Playwriting Fundamentals: Learn the building blocks of drama — conflict, character, dialogue, and structure.
-
Scene & Character Development: Explore what makes a scene dynamic and a character believable.
-
Group Collaboration & Peer Feedback: Opportunities to share work, give and receive constructive feedback, and build community.
-
Mentorship from Industry Professionals: Individualized guidance from playwrights, directors, and dramaturgs.
-
Rehearsed Readings: Actors bring students’ work to life in informal readings to help refine dialogue and pacing.
-
Final Showcase: Each term culminates in a staged reading or performance of selected student works, open to family, friends, and the public.
PRICING
This program is $1000 in total.
($25/week or $100/month)
Payments can be made in full on the first day of the program, OR a monthly payment plan can be arranged.
ALL PROGRAMS WILL BE HELD IN CAMBRIDGE, ONTARIO.
ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN CHURCH (810 King St East. Cambridge, ON.)
IMPORTANT DATES
Saturdays from 10:00-11:00 AM
TERM ONE - Saturday, September 13th- Saturday, December 6th
TERM TWO - Saturday, January 10th- Saturday, June 20th
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS PRIOR EXPERIENCE IN DRAMA OR THEATRE NECESSARY?
No prior experience is necessary. The program is designed to meet participants where they are and help them grow at their own pace, whether they are new to drama or have experience.
WHAT HAPPENS IF A STUDENT MISSES A CLASS?
Consistent attendance is greatly encouraged, especially as rehearsals progress, but students can catch up with the help of instructors or peers.
WHO TEACHES THE PROGRAM?
Classes are led by experienced playwrights, dramturgs and theatre educators, all of whom are passionate about mentoring young voices and building confidence through creative expression.
WHAT SHOULD STUDENTS BRING?
Students should bring a notebook, pen or pencil, and any ideas they’d like to explore. Laptops and tablets are welcome but not required. All other materials will be provided.