This years theme is "PERCEPTIONS"

SCRIPTS: Ireland’s Playwriting Festival, in partnership with Birr Theatre & Arts Centre, seeks new works for stage.

​PERCEPTIONS… How do perceptions shape the way stories are told?
Whether it’s the lens through which we view ourselves, others, or society as a whole, individuals’ perceptions impact each and every one of our daily interactions, leading to connections, misunderstandings, or revelations. 
Our perceptions can distort, illuminate, or inspire. From personal introspection to societal commentary, this year’s theme invites you to explore different Perceptions with creativity and boldness.
 

Taking place in Birr, Co Offaly, Scripts Ireland’s Playwriting Festival creates unique opportunities for playwrights to have their work developed and produced.  

Three scripts, most suited for development, will be selected through a rigorous shortlisting process.

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These selected playwrights will receive a week* of mentoring and script development under the guidance of Playwright and Screenwriter Eugene O'Brien, where the whole process of writing and rewriting is explored in a collaborative and supportive environment. 

*This is subject to funding approval through Festivals Investment Scheme from the Arts Council

The residency supports three playwrights with a team of artists to mentor, develop, and produce the emerging scripts for a rehearsed reading of the new works by professional actors at the festival finale. Industry professionals then judge the final versions and a winner is selected. We are excited to confirm that the 2025 panel will include a representative from The Abbey Theatre.  (Other previous judges have included Jim Culleton of Fishamble Theatre, Phillip McMahon, David Horan (Bewley’s Cafe Theatre) and playwright, director, and performer, Gina Moxley).​

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There will be a prize for "Best Play" which includes: 

• Dramaturgy support with the literary department at The Abbey Theatre; 

• a scholarship with Fishamble, the New Play Company; 

• a Theatre Residency at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre in 2026.

While the copyright of the play will remain with the playwright, Scripts and Birr Theatre & Arts Centre reserves the right to arrange the first performance of the selected work, if deemed appropriate, and to use the play for publicity for the festival. 

Any of the three finalists who go on to develop their play further are asked to acknowledge Scripts Ireland’s Playwriting Festival and Birr Theatre & Arts Centre in their credits.  

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SCRIPTS is supported by Birr Theatre & Arts Centre, Jasango Theatre, Offaly County Council, Arts Council of Ireland

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