A flagship programme to support Welsh Language Dramaturgy
Gair i Gall is an ambitious programme for Welsh language theatre – dedicated support for the development of text-based dramaturgy skills and the role of the dramaturg in the creation of new work.
Designed specifically for artists working in the Welsh language, the programme will bring together playwrights and directors interested in new writing to explore how new plays are developed, challenged and strengthened – from early ideas to large-scale ambition – supported by award-winning dramaturgs.
We will select a group of 6 freelance Welsh-speaking playwrights and directors with a commitment to making new text-based work in Welsh. There are an additional 4 places open to theatre-makers already attached to companies across Wales. They will be invited to take part in 8 paid workshops.
This paid dramaturgy programme offers Welsh-language playwrights and directors paid time, tools and collaboration to develop ambitious text-based work in the future.
This is a statement of Stiwdio Clwyd’s commitment to Welsh-language theatre making.
Want to find out more?
To find out more and how to apply, sign up for an on-line Q&A session with the Stiwdio Clwyd team at either:
- 1pm on Tuesday 31 March 2026
- 6pm on Thursday 2 April 2026
Email stiwdio@theatrclwyd.com to sign up.
Application deadline: 6pm on Thursday 9 April 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this programme for?
This programme is for Welsh-language playwrights and directors who are interested in developing text-based new work.
It is aimed at emerging artists — defined as artists with at least two professional credits — who want to deepen their dramaturgical skills and build stronger creative processes and collaborations.
Do I need to be fluent in Welsh to apply?
You should be working in the Welsh language and interested in developing Welsh-language theatre.
We recognise that bilingualism exists on a spectrum. The programme is designed to support artists working bilingually, and we encourage applications from artists who move between Welsh and English in their practice.
What language will the programme be delivered in?
The programme will be delivered predominantly in English, but it is specifically designed for Welsh-language practitioners.
This reflects the bilingual reality of working in Wales and aims to reduce pressure around language, perfectionism and “getting it right”. Welsh-language work, thinking and discussion will be actively welcomed and encouraged throughout.
Is this programme about devised work?
No. This programme is focused on text-based theatre and the development of new plays.
It supports dramaturgical development of scripted work, particularly at middle and large scale.
What is meant by ‘dramaturgy’ in this context?
Dramaturgy refers to the processes, tools and relationships that support the development of a script — including structure, form, character, context, audience and meaning.
This programme places particular emphasis on the role of the dramaturg as distinct from the director or playwright (while recognising that there is a lot of crossover), and on how playwrights, directors and dramaturgs can work together in generative, challenging and supportive ways.
Do I need to have worked with a dramaturg before?
No. You do not need prior experience of working with a dramaturg.
The programme is designed both for artists who are new to dramaturgical practice and for those who want to deepen or formalise their existing approaches.
How many places are available?
- 6 paid places for Welsh-language freelance playwrights and directors
- 4 associate places for Welsh-language artists who are attached to organisations and able to participate as part of their existing roles
All places will be allocated through an open application process.
Is the programme paid?
Yes.
Participants in the 6 freelance places will be paid to take part in the programme. There is a breakdown of the fee in the Information Pack.
Associate participants will take part as part of their employed role within their organisation so please discuss this as part of training within your organisation.
What is the time commitment?
The programme consists of 8 workshops in total:
- 2 in person at Theatr Clwyd
- 6 online
Full dates and time commitments can be found on Appendix One in the Information Pack.
Who will be leading the sessions?
The programme will include contributions from award-winning dramaturgs, playwrights and directors, alongside facilitators from Stiwdio Clwyd and guests from the Sherman Theatre.
Guest artists will bring expertise from across Wales and the wider UK theatre ecology.
Do I need to be based in North Wales?
No. Artists from or based across Wales are encouraged to apply.
Online delivery for the majority of sessions is designed to make the programme accessible regardless of location.
Will this programme lead to a production or commission?
The programme is a development opportunity, not a guaranteed commission or production. However, it is designed to:
- Build long-term creative relationships
- Develop skills that support future commissions and productions
- Help Stiwdio Clwyd better understand and support Welsh-language theatre-makers and the wider ecology.
Why is Stiwdio Clwyd running this programme?
This programme is part of Stiwdio Clwyd’s commitment to:
- Supporting Welsh-language theatre makers
- Embedding bilingualism as a creative practice
- Offering potential training and development opportunities
- Making Stiwdio Clwyd a welcoming home for Welsh-language theatre-makers.
How do I apply?
Full application details, deadlines and eligibility criteria can be found in the Information Pack above.
Who can I contact if I have questions or access needs?
We warmly welcome conversations with artists. For more information, please contact the team at Stiwdio Clwyd at stiwdio@theatrclwyd.com.
