Pentabus: applications for the 2026 Jerwood Writer in Residence are open.
This £12,000 bursary supports a playwright in the early stage of their career, providing them the
opportunity to spend between 6 months and a year writing at Pentabus in Ludlow, South
Shropshire.
During their time with Pentabus, the recipient will be supported to write at least one new full-
length play or piece of theatre, while learning more about how a professional theatre company works.
This is the second of two years supported by Jerwood Foundation. The £12,000 Bursary is an
increase of £2,000 from previous bursaries, recognising the increased cost of living and need to
support artists of all levels at a financially challenging time.
The 2026 Jerwood Writer in Residence will be the 10th writer in residence Pentabus has hosted,
all of whom have gone on to awards and success.
The current Jerwood Writer in Residence is Liv Hennessey, who was nominated for an Olivier
Award for her play Vardy V Rooney: The Wagatha Christie Trial, and previous writers include
Laura Waldren and Henry Madd (2023), Florence Espuet-Nickless (2021/22), Tom Powell
(2020/21), Sophie Ellerby (2018/19), Tim Foley (2017), Joe White (2016) and Simon Longman
(2015).
Key dates for the 2026 Jerwood Writer in Residence application process:
• Application deadline: Mon 14th July at 10am.
• Shortlist Interviews 1 – Weds 17th December (online)
• Shortlist Interviews 2 – Thurs 15th Jan (in-person, Ludlow)
For more information and to apply, visit the website.
Deadline: 14 July 2025
Source: direct contact