Nusantara Open Circle (NOC) is a transnational playwright development programme presented by Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay and produced by Main Tulis Group. This initiative nurtures new writing from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei, fostering connections and dialogue across the region. Selected playwrights will work closely with experienced mentors to refine their scripts, culminating in a dramatised reading at Esplanade in January 2027 as part of Nusantara Open Circle 2027. 

NOC is a co-production of Esplanade and Main Tulis Group in partnership with Panas Panas Theatre from Malaysia and Indonesia Dramatic Reading Festival.

We are looking for four promising playwrights to take part in this development phase. Each selected playwright will receive mentorship, a stipend, and the opportunity to have their work showcased in the form of a dramatised reading. While this residency is particularly suitable for emerging playwrights, all writers who believe they can benefit from mentoring and guidance are welcomed to apply.

What We’re Looking For:

• A brand-new short script (6 – 10 pages) exploring the theme of “Tanam”. Interpret this theme however you like but be sure to explain its relevance in your application. 

• Original, unstaged work written primarily in Bahasa Melayu, Bahasa Indonesia, or Malay or Indonesian-related dialects spoken in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei. If regional dialects or slang terms are used, you must include English translations and/or footnotes. Scripts without translations for regional dialects or slang terms will be disqualified.

• Playwrights based in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, or Brunei. There is no age limit. 

Selection Criteria 

1. There can only be one entry per playwright. Once submitted, the entry is considered final.

2. Applications will be considered based on the following:

• Relevance of script to the theme , and how the script interprets and responds to the theme

• How the playwright can benefit from the mentorship programme 

• Potential of the submitted script to be further developed into a 20-page script for a dramatised reading presentation in January 2027

3. The selection panel’s decision in all matters is final and no correspondence from then on will be entertained.