Playwrights Lab 2026

About the Open Call

The Playwrights Lab is a 2 week residency for Canadian Playwrights dedicated to supporting the development of new theatrical work in a generative, artist-centered environment. This residency provides time, space, and resources for playwrights to experiment, rewrite, and explore their plays. With a focus on community, the lab brings playwrights together through facilitated conversations and shared creative practice, fostering a dynamic and collaborative atmosphere for artistic growth. Led by experienced experts in new plays, the Lab fosters risk-taking and innovation. Ideal for both emerging and established Canadian playwrights working in English, this residency is a catalyst for meaningful artistic breakthroughs. Program Goals include: Support New Play Development: Provide playwrights with dedicated time, space, and resources to advance a new or in-progress script. Learn from Lectures and Q & A's: Faculty talks and dialogues on issues of the day. Prioritize Artistic Process: Emphasize experimentation, discovery, and revision, creating a lab environment where risk-taking and failure are part of the process. Cultivate Dramaturgical Practice: Deepen participants’ understanding of structure, language, and character through dramaturgical support. Build Artistic Community: Create a national and international network of artists, offering space for exchange, mentorship, and long-term creative relationships. Faculty will offer constructive feedback, share ideas, and address the challenges of writing for contemporary theatre.

What is Offered

Meal Plan, Accommodation, Studio Space, Opportunities to Showcase Work-in-Progress, Group Seminars/Workshops, Paul D. Fleck Library and Archives access, Campus Facilities (swimming pool, climbing gym, fitness suite, box office discounts).

Requirements

This program is open to Canadian playwrights writing in English at all stages of their careers. Applicants must be 18+ at the time of the program start date. Applications are open to Canadians and Permanent Residents only. Indigenous candidates are encouraged to apply. Plays commissioned by other theatres or producers must include written permission. Adaptations for stage require signed permission or contract from the rights holder. Playwrights who have attended the Lab or Retreat in the past 2 years or any other Banff Centre residencies in the 12 months preceding the Lab are not eligible to apply. Applicants can apply as Emerging Playwrights (less than 5 years practice, fewer than 2 professionally produced plays) or Established Playwrights (significant experience). Collaborative groups of no more than two co-writers are welcome, both must attend.

How to Apply

Step 1: Complete the Online Form. Step 2: Pay your application fee. Step 3: Upload Your Materials (Resume, Cover Letter, Portfolio, Financial Assistance info). Group applications have specific instructions for lead applicant and an additional $35 registration fee per member upon acceptance to the program.