PLAYtime! Script Development Programme

A mentorship programme supporting artists in developing new works for the PLAYtime! series.

Loading component...

About PLAYtime! and the Script Development Programme

PLAYtime! is Esplanade's interactive theatre series for children aged 3 to 6. Each production is approximately 45 minutes long and is specially created to introduce young children to the performing arts through engaging, age-appropriate and interactive experiences.

Thoughtfully created with children in mind, PLAYtime! productions reflect their perspectives, curiosities and anxieties while inspiring creativity and encouraging meaningful conversations through the performing arts. All productions are presented as Relaxed Performances, welcoming children with diverse needs.

To grow the next generation of artists creating theatre for children, as well as expand the series' repertoire of original scripts, Esplanade is launching the PLAYtime! Script Development Programme—a mentorship initiative supporting the development of new works for children aged 3 to 6.

We recognise that many artists have exciting ideas for young audiences but may not have the experience or confidence to develop them into a full-length script. Through mentorship from experienced playwright, Jean Tay, selected artists will receive guidance to shape their concepts into a completed script.

The programme welcomes artists from different disciplines—including playwrights, authors, directors, devisers, performers, educators and multidisciplinary artists. Applicants do not need prior scriptwriting experience to apply.

Through this programme, we aim to:

Grow the pool of artists creating original works for children aged 3 to 6.
Support artists in developing early-stage ideas into full-length scripts.
Encourage new voices and perspectives in theatre for young audiences.
Build a sustainable pipeline of future PLAYtime! scripts.

Application is open from now until 31 January 2027.

A full application includes:

1. Artist Information

A bio introducing who you are and your background

2. Project Proposal (400 to 600 words)

Please tell us about:

The story or concept you would like to develop.
Why you are interested in creating this work.
Why you feel the idea is suitable for children aged 3 to 6.
How you imagine audiences experiencing the work, including any opportunities for interaction or participation, where applicable.
The current stage of development of the work.
What you hope to explore or develop through the mentorship programme.

3. Supporting Materials (optional)

You may include supporting materials such as:

Script excerpts
Writing samples
Visual references
Links to previous work, where relevant

Due to the anticipated volume of applications, only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

What Support Will Selected Artists Receive?

Selected participants will receive:

A development honorarium of $1,000, disbursed in two instalments
Approximately four months of mentorship from Jean Tay
One-on-one consultations and script development feedback
Guidance in developing a full-length script (approximately 45 minutes)
Depending on the needs and readiness of each project, additional development opportunities such as work-in-progress sharings or script readings may also be offered.

Completed scripts will be retained in Esplanade's internal development library for future artistic consideration. Writers retain copyright, while Esplanade will hold first right of refusal for five years. Participation in the programme does not guarantee future commissioning or production. Should Esplanade wish to commission or develop a script further, the terms of engagement, including the writer's fee, will be discussed separately.

What Happens to Scripts Developed Through the Programme?

Who Can Apply?

Programme Timeline

Open Call (Aug 2026 –31 Jan 2027)

Artists may submit early-stage ideas, concepts or works-in-progress for consideration.

↓

Rolling Assessment

Applications are reviewed periodically throughout the Open Call period. Suitable applicants may be invited for a conversation with the mentor and members of the PLAYtime! team before being offered a place in the programme.

↓

Script Development (Approximately four months)

Selected artists receive mentorship and guidance to develop their concept into a full-length script (approximately 45 minutes).

↓

Final Submission

Completed scripts are submitted for future artistic consideration and potential development.

Questions About the Programme?